Punjab Kings, led by Shreyas Iyer, have shown strong form this IPL 2025 season. However, they suffered a defeat in their last match against Sunrisers Hyderabad. While the batting unit performed exceptionally well, it was the bowling department that disappointed. Now, they are set to face the defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders at their home ground, offering Iyer a chance to correct past mistakes.
In their last game, Punjab posted a massive total of 245/6 batting first. However, Sunrisers chased it down thanks to a blistering century from Abhishek Sharma. On the other hand, KKR defeated Chennai Super Kings in their previous match and will aim to continue their winning momentum. All eyes are on whether both teams will make changes in their playing XI.
Will Chahal Be Dropped?
Punjab has one of the most successful spinners in IPL history – Yuzvendra Chahal. Despite his 366 wickets in T20s, Chahal has struggled this season. In the last match, he conceded 56 runs in four overs and picked just one wicket. Shreyas Iyer may consider dropping him in favour of left-arm spinner Harpreet Brar, who can also contribute with the bat.
Other than this, no major changes are expected. The opening pair of Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh is likely to stay. If Punjab bowls first, Priyansh may be used as an impact player. Shreyas Iyer, Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Glenn Maxwell, and Marcus Stoinis are all expected to retain their places in the lineup. Marco Jansen and Arshdeep Singh will lead the bowling attack.
Lockie Ferguson had to leave the last match due to an injury, and there’s no clear update on his fitness. If he is fit, he will play; if not, Kuldeep Sen or Vyshak Vijay Kumar may be brought in.
KKR’s Possible Line-up Changes
Kolkata Knight Riders may also make one change in their playing XI. In the last match, they dropped Spencer Johnson for Moeen Ali due to the Chennai pitch conditions. For this game, Moeen might be dropped and Johnson could return to the side.
No other changes are expected in the team. Quinton de Kock, Sunil Narine, Ajinkya Rahane, Rinku Singh, Venkatesh Iyer, Andre Russell, Ramandeep Singh, Vaibhav Arora, Harshit Rana, and Varun Chakaravarthy are all expected to feature.
Probable Playing XIs
Punjab Kings: Shreyas Iyer (Captain), Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Harpreet Brar, Arshdeep Singh, Lockie Ferguson.
Kolkata Knight Riders: Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), Quinton de Kock, Sunil Narine, Rinku Singh, Venkatesh Iyer, Andre Russell, Ramandeep Singh, Vaibhav Arora, Spencer Johnson, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy.