In a thrilling 18th match of the IPL 2025 season, the Rajasthan Royals handed the Punjab Kings their first defeat in dramatic fashion, securing a decisive 50-run win. Played at the newly inaugurated Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, the game witnessed commanding performances from Rajasthan’s top order and a disciplined bowling attack that completely dismantled the Punjab Kings’ chase.
This match was more than just a routine fixture—it was a clear statement of intent from the Royals. For the Punjab Kings, it was a moment of reckoning as their previously unbeaten streak came to an abrupt end. In this in-depth report, we break down every major moment, from standout batting performances to tactical bowling changes and how both teams now stand in the tournament landscape.
Shuru se ant tak, ek hi bol – Halla Bol! 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/bxnEo1OT3X
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) April 5, 2025
Match Overview: RR vs PBKS – IPL 2025, Match 18
- Venue: Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur
- Date: April 5, 2025
- Result: Rajasthan Royals won by 50 runs
- Toss: Punjab Kings won the toss and opted to bowl first
Rajasthan Royals’ Innings: A Clinical Top-Order Assault
The Rajasthan Royals came out with a clear game plan—to put up a total that would force Punjab to play catch-up from ball one. Opening batsman Yashasvi Jaiswal was the catalyst, crafting a powerful 67 off 45 balls, laced with three fours and five towering sixes. Jaiswal’s innings was a mix of timing and aggression, setting the tone for the innings.
Following his departure, Sanju Samson and Riyan Parag continued the momentum. Parag, in particular, played a mature and composed knock of 43* off just 26 deliveries, ensuring that the Royals crossed the 200-run mark. Samson chipped in with valuable runs, and contributions from Dhruv Jurel and Shimron Hetmyer kept the pressure on the bowlers.
- Final Score: Rajasthan Royals – 205/4 in 20 overs
- Run Rate: 10.25
Punjab Kings’ Response: Collapse Under Pressure
Chasing a daunting target of 206, the Punjab Kings needed a solid foundation from their top order. However, that ambition was shattered almost instantly by Jofra Archer, who dismissed both Priyansh Arya and captain Shreyas Iyer in his very first over. Archer’s fiery spell disrupted Punjab’s rhythm and tilted the game decisively in Rajasthan’s favor.
Despite a valiant 88-run partnership between Glenn Maxwell and Nehal Wadhera, wickets continued to fall at regular intervals. The Punjab middle-order lacked the composure to rebuild after the early setbacks. Maxwell’s aggression and Wadhera’s resilience briefly reignited hopes, but once that partnership was broken, the Royals tightened their grip with clinical efficiency.
- Final Score: Punjab Kings – 155/9 in 20 overs
- Top Scorer: Glenn Maxwell – 51 (off 32 balls)
Star Performers of the Match
Yashasvi Jaiswal – The Catalyst at the Top
Jaiswal’s knock of 67 provided the perfect platform. His calculated aggression neutralized Punjab’s powerplay plans and put the bowlers on the back foot early on.
Jofra Archer – The Game Changer
Archer’s impact was immediate and brutal. His first over alone—featuring two wickets—sapped the energy out of Punjab’s chase. He finished with figures of 3/24 and was deservedly awarded Player of the Match.
Riyan Parag – The Finisher
Known for his flair, Parag showed a new level of maturity with his unbeaten 43. He navigated the final overs smartly, capitalizing on gaps and maintaining a high strike rate.
Implications on the Points Table
This result has shifted the dynamics of the IPL 2025 points table. With this victory, Rajasthan Royals continue their surge up the rankings, building momentum with each match. Meanwhile, the Punjab Kings will need to recalibrate and address their middle-order vulnerabilities and bowling inconsistencies.
What’s Next?
- Punjab Kings: Will face Chennai Super Kings in their next encounter on Tuesday. A crucial fixture to regain lost momentum.
- Rajasthan Royals: Up against the Gujarat Titans on Wednesday—a top-of-the-table clash that promises fireworks.
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❤🫱🏻🫲🏻🩷 pic.twitter.com/nyhduCdlRO
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) April 5, 2025
Conclusion
The Rajasthan Royals delivered a masterclass in all departments—batting, bowling, and fielding. From Jaiswal’s fireworks to Archer’s lethal spells, the team showed why they are one of the title contenders this year. For Punjab, this match serves as a wake-up call. Their unbeaten run has ended, but there’s still plenty of time in the tournament to regroup and come back stronger.
Whether you’re a Royals fan celebrating or a Kings supporter reeling from the loss, one thing is certain—the IPL 2025 season continues to deliver high-octane drama and unforgettable moments.
