source : BCCI
Rajasthan Royals (RR) showcased a clinical all-round performance to hand Punjab Kings (PBKS) their first defeat of the season in a dominant 50-run win at Mullanpur. RR posted an imposing total of 205/4, riding on a brilliant half-century from Yashasvi Jaiswal and valuable contributions from Sanju Samson and Riyan Parag. This marks RR’s second consecutive win in IPL 2025 and makes them the first team to breach the 200-run mark at this relatively new venue.
Jaiswal, who had been searching for form this season, finally found his rhythm despite a scratchy start. After surviving early swings and a mistimed pull, he exploded in the fourth over with back-to-back sixes and never looked back. Samson, returning as full-time captain after a finger injury, offered early stability as the pair put up a solid opening stand. Though Punjab’s bowlers fought back in the middle overs with clever changes of pace, RR accelerated well in the death overs thanks to Parag’s explosive finish.
RR’s batting display was backed by a lethal bowling effort, spearheaded by Jofra Archer. The English pacer struck twice in the first over, removing both openers with sheer pace and swing. PBKS never recovered from the early jolt, despite a spirited 88-run partnership between Nehal Wadhera and Glenn Maxwell. Archer, Sandeep Sharma, and spinners Theekshana and Hasaranga ensured that PBKS were kept under pressure throughout the innings, eventually bowling them out for 155/9.
Wadhera’s fighting fifty gave PBKS a glimmer of hope, especially during a brief onslaught in the middle overs alongside Maxwell. However, RR’s spinners tightened the screws once again. Hasaranga and Theekshana executed their plans to perfection, drawing errors from both set batters. Maxwell holed out trying to up the ante, and Wadhera followed shortly after—leaving PBKS too much to chase in too little time.
This comprehensive victory reinforces RR’s position as early contenders in IPL 2025. With Archer regaining top form and Jaiswal back among the runs, they appear to have found the right balance. Meanwhile, PBKS will look to regroup quickly after a disappointing first home outing. The IPL remains long, but Rajasthan have made it clear—they’re here to dominate.
