PBKS vs MI Predicted Playing 11, IPL Match Today: Players list, impact subs, full squad for Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians match

By | May 26, 2025

PBKS vs MI IPL 2025: Predicted Playing XI, Impact Subs & Full Squad Preview for Today’s Crucial Clash

The Indian Premier League 2025 is heating up as Punjab Kings (PBKS) prepare to face Mumbai Indians (MI) in what promises to be a thrilling encounter at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur. Both teams have displayed stellar performances throughout the season, and today’s match could be pivotal in deciding the points table standings as the playoffs approach.

Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians: The Stakes

With the IPL reaching the business end of the tournament, every match counts. Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians, two of the most popular franchises in the IPL, are looking to strengthen their position atop the points table. While both teams have qualified for the playoffs, a win here will boost morale and potentially secure a top-two finish, which comes with strategic advantages in the knockout stages.

Predicted Playing XI: Punjab Kings

Punjab Kings have balanced their squad with a blend of power hitters, experienced campaigners, and disciplined bowlers. Here’s the predicted playing eleven for PBKS:

  • Top Order: Jonny Bairstow, Atharva Taide, Prabhsimran Singh
  • Middle Order: Shreyas Iyer (captain), Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma (wicketkeeper), Shashank Singh
  • All-rounders: Sam Curran, Sikandar Raza
  • Bowlers: Harpreet Brar, Arshdeep Singh, Kagiso Rabada

Bairstow’s explosive batting at the top will be crucial to set the tempo, while Prabhsimran Singh and Shreyas Iyer bring stability and experience to anchor the innings. The middle order looks strong with Livingstone’s power hitting, complemented by Curran and Raza’s all-round abilities. The bowling attack relies heavily on the pace and death-overs expertise of Arshdeep Singh and Rabada, supported by the spin variations of Harpreet Brar.

Impact Substitutes: Prabhsimran Singh and Harpreet Brar provide vital backup options if the game situation demands tactical changes.

Predicted Playing XI: Mumbai Indians

Mumbai Indians, under Rohit Sharma’s leadership, have mixed youth with experience to stay competitive. The predicted lineup:

  • Top Order: Rohit Sharma (captain), Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Tilak Varma
  • Middle Order: Hardik Pandya, Tim David, Suryakumar Yadav
  • All-rounders: Mohammad Nabi, Romario Shepherd
  • Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Gerald Coetzee, Akash Madhwal

Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan form a formidable opening partnership, setting a solid foundation. The middle order boasts the explosive Hardik Pandya and consistent Suryakumar Yadav, who can change the game within a few overs. Tim David’s finishers’ role will be vital towards the end. The bowling department is led by Jasprit Bumrah, whose death bowling skills remain unparalleled, backed by the pace of Coetzee and Madhwal, and the all-round capabilities of Nabi and Shepherd.

Impact Substitutes: Nehal Wadhera and Karn Sharma add flexibility to the squad for game-time tactical decisions.

Pitch & Conditions: What to Expect

The Sawai Mansingh Stadium traditionally offers a batting-friendly surface, with the pitch expected to favor stroke play. Batsmen can look to capitalize early on, but spinners might also get some assistance as the game progresses. The ground size is moderate, allowing for boundary opportunities without being overly generous.

Weather-wise, clear skies are forecast, but the humidity could affect players’ stamina, making fitness and fielding crucial factors in the outcome.

Key Player Battles to Watch

  • Arshdeep Singh vs Rohit Sharma: The veteran opener against the young pacer is a classic contest. Arshdeep’s ability to swing the ball early and execute yorkers will be tested by Rohit’s experience and composure.
  • Shreyas Iyer vs Jasprit Bumrah: Iyer’s consistency and adaptability will be under scrutiny against Bumrah’s lethal pace and pinpoint accuracy.
  • Liam Livingstone vs Gerald Coetzee: The English all-rounder’s power hitting will be a major threat to Coetzee, who has impressed with his pace and variations.

Impact Substitutes: Tactical Game-Changers

Both teams have the option to use impact substitutes to adjust their strategies dynamically. PBKS’s Prabhsimran Singh and Harpreet Brar can add depth either in batting or spin bowling, while MI’s Nehal Wadhera and Karn Sharma offer additional spin and batting options. These substitutions can be crucial in tight matches, especially in the middle overs or death overs where momentum shifts occur.

Fantasy Cricket Tips

For fantasy players, key picks today include:

  • Captain Choices: Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer – both consistent run-scorers and pivotal for their teams.
  • Vice-Captain: Jasprit Bumrah and Suryakumar Yadav – the former for his bowling prowess, the latter for explosive batting.
  • Budget Picks: Harpreet Brar and Nehal Wadhera – potential differential picks who can provide valuable points at a low cost.

Final Thoughts: Who Holds the Edge?

Both PBKS and MI come into this match with strong lineups and recent good form. Punjab Kings’ balanced attack with strong seamers and aggressive batting looks formidable. However, Mumbai Indians’ experience in handling high-pressure games, combined with their explosive batting and lethal death bowling, make them a tough challenge.

The match could hinge on the toss, early breakthroughs, and how well each team adapts to pitch conditions. Expect fireworks with high-scoring overs and tactical battles between captains.

Cricket fans can look forward to an exciting game filled with nail-biting moments, game-changing performances, and an electrifying atmosphere as these IPL giants clash.