Get ready for a blockbuster showdown as Punjab Kings (PBKS) lock horns with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in what promises to be another thrilling chapter of their IPL rivalry! With KKR leading the head-to-head battle 21-13 over 34 matches, history might favor Kolkata, but recent form tells a different story.

KKR find themselves in a precarious position, with just three wins and five defeats from eight matches. They suffered a 39-run loss against the Gujarat Titans at home earlier this week. The form of Andre Russell, Rinku Singh, and Ramandeep Singh is hurting the defending champions. Another defeat would significantly reduce their chances of reaching the playoffs.

In their recent encounters, PBKS and KKR have produced record-breaking performances. In April 2024, PBKS achieved the highest successful run chase in IPL history by scoring 262 runs against KKR. Conversely, in April 2025, PBKS defended a modest total of 111 runs, marking the lowest total ever defended in IPL history, again against KKR. Out of 34 IPL matches between the two teams, KKR has won 21 times, while PBKS has secured 13 victories.​ Despite KKR’s historical advantage, PBKS has won the last two encounters, showcasing a shift in momentum.

​KKR has struggled at their home ground in IPL 2025, winning only one out of four matches at Eden Gardens. The Eden Gardens pitch has been unpredictable this season, making it challenging to anticipate its behavior

Meanwhile, Punjab Kings are just outside the top four on the points table. They have five wins and three defeats after playing eight matches. They suffered a seven-wicket loss in Mullanpur in their most recent fixture, which was against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer had a blistering start to IPL 2025, but his form has dipped over the last few games. The Mumbai batter will look to get back among the runs and lead his team from the front on Saturday.

These two teams played a low-scoring thriller earlier in the season in Mullanpur. PBKS defended a target of 112, winning by 16 runs. This is the lowest total successfully defended in IPL history.

Fantasy XI Team of the Match between PBKS and KKR

1. Wicketkeeper:

1. Josh Inglis (PBKS) – Reliable behind the stumps and capable of scoring quick runs.

2. Batters:

1. Shreyas Iyer (PBKS) – Consistent performer and captain of PBKS.
2. Ajinkya Rahane (KKR) – Experienced batter with a solid record at Eden Gardens.
3. Rinku Singh (KKR) – Known for his finishing abilities.

3. All-rounders:

1. Andre Russell (KKR) – A game-changer with both bat and ball.
2. Marcus Stoinis (PBKS) – Versatile player who contributes in all departments.
3. Moeen Ali (KKR) – Handy with spin and can score quick runs.

4. Bowlers:

1. Varun Chakravarthy (KKR) – A key spinner with a knack for picking wickets.
2. Yuzvendra Chahal (PBKS) – In great form and a threat to KKR’s middle order.
3. Arshdeep Singh (PBKS) – Effective with the new ball and at the death.
4. Sunil Narine (KKR) – Experienced spinner who can also contribute with the bat.

Captain and Vice-Captain Picks

1. Captain: Andre Russell (KKR) – His all-round abilities make him a top choice.
2. Vice-Captain: Shreyas Iyer (PBKS) – Dependable and consistent with the bat.

Introduction of the Team Kolkata Knight Riders:

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) arrive at their home ground, Eden Gardens, with a blend of experienced stars and promising youngsters. Led by the composed Ajinkya Rahane, KKR will rely on the explosive batting power of Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Venkatesh Iyer to set the tone at the top. Rinku Singh has carved a niche as a dependable finisher, while Andre Russell’s all-round brilliance adds unmatched firepower to the middle order.

KKR’s bowling attack looks promising with Varun Chakaravarthy’s mystery spin and Sunil Narine’s experience. Moeen Ali provides depth with both bat and ball, while Harshit Rana and Vaibhav Arora bring youthful energy to the pace attack. The presence of Angkrish Raghuvanshi as an impact player gives KKR flexibility to adapt to match conditions.

Probable Playing Squad:

1. Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK)
2. Sunil Narine
3. Ajinkya Rahane ©
4. Venkatesh Iyer
5. Rinku Singh
6. Andre Russell
7. Ramandeep Singh
8. Moeen Ali
9. Harshit Rana
10. Vaibhav Arora
11. Varun Chakaravarthy
12. Angkrish Raghuvanshi (Impact Player)

Introduction of the Team Punjab Kings:

Punjab Kings’ bowling lineup is spearheaded by the lethal Arshdeep Singh, who excels with the new ball and in death overs. Yuzvendra Chahal has been in scintillating form, posing a major threat to opposing batters, while Harpreet Brar and Xavier Bartlett offer valuable spin and pace options, respectively. The inclusion of Shashank Singh as a utility player enhances their depth. Yuzvendra Chahal’s role as the impact player could be pivotal in turning the match PBKS’s way.

Both teams showcase depth and versatility, making this match a fascinating clash of strategies and talent. What are your predictions for this exciting encounter?

Probable Playing Squad:

1. Priyansh Arya
2. Prabhsimran Singh
3. Shreyas Iyer ©
4. Josh Inglis (WK)
5. Nehal Wadhera
6. Shashank Singh
7. Marcus Stoinis
8. Marco Jansen
9. Xavier Bartlett
10. Harpreet Brar
11. Arshdeep Singh
12. Yuzvendra Chahal (Impact Player)

What To Expect from tomorrow’s game?

The Eden Gardens has been an excellent venue for batting, especially in recent years. After four games, the average first-innings score this season has been around 202. Three out of the four matches have been won by teams batting first. Winning the toss and opting to bat could be a good ploy. Posting a solid total and applying scoreboard pressure on the opposition in the second innings could prove fruitful.

Nature: Eden Gardens offers a batting-friendly pitch with true bounce and pace. Short boundaries and a fast outfield favor high scores, though spinners can find grip as the game progresses.

Behavior: Early swing for pacers, flattens out quickly. Spinners are impactful in the middle overs, especially in day games.

Trend: High-scoring venue; 200+ totals in 12 of 15 matches since 2023 IPL. Chasing sides have an edge (56/94 wins).

Key Players to Watch this Match:

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

1. Ajinkya Rahane: The captain and a dependable batter, he’s closing in on the 5,000-run milestone in IPL.
2. Andre Russell: Known for his explosive batting, he’s just a few runs away from becoming KKR’s highest run-scorer against PBKS.
3. Varun Chakravarthy: The mystery spinner has been consistent, with 10 wickets in 8 matches this season.
4. Rinku Singh: A rising star who has shown his ability to finish games under pressure.

Punjab Kings (PBKS)

1. Shreyas Iyer: The skipper and a key batter, he has been in good form this season, with a strike rate of 185.22.
2. Yuzvendra Chahal: The experienced spinner, crucial in breaking partnerships, has been impactful in recent games.
3. Prabhsimran Singh: A promising batter, just a few runs away from his 1,000-run milestone in IPL.
4. Arshdeep Singh: A reliable bowler, especially effective in the death overs.