Punjab Kings Aim for Top Table Finish in Rescheduled Clash against Delhi Capitals
Punjab Kings (PBKS) have a significant opportunity to ascend to the top of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 points table as they face already eliminated Delhi Capitals (DC) in a rescheduled fixture at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur today, Saturday, May 24th. This match, a replay of the game originally aborted in Dharamsala on May 8th due to security concerns, is crucial for Punjab's ambitions of securing a top-two finish.
Punjab's Strong Position
Currently positioned second with 17 points from 12 matches (8 wins, 3 losses, 1 no-result), Punjab Kings are in excellent form, having won their last three completed games. A victory against Delhi would not only confirm their playoff qualification but also propel them to 19 points, potentially securing the coveted top spot depending on other results. This would be their first playoff appearance since 2014. Their campaign has been powered by a formidable batting lineup, with five batsmen, including captain Shreyas Iyer (435 runs, SR 174.69) and opener Prabhsimran Singh (458 runs), having scored over 250 runs each at strike rates exceeding 150 – a first for any team in IPL history.
Delhi Capitals Playing for Pride
Delhi Capitals, on the other hand, are out of playoff contention after a loss to Mumbai Indians earlier in the week left them with 13 points from 13 games. Despite a strong start to their season with five wins in six games, their form has since declined sharply, managing only one victory in their subsequent seven matches. They will be playing to salvage pride and potentially disrupt Punjab's campaign. Key batsman KL Rahul (504 runs, SR 148.67) has shown improved striking ability this season.
Team News and Conditions
Punjab Kings have their Australian contingent, including Josh Inglis and Marcus Stoinis, available for selection. Captain Shreyas Iyer, who had a finger injury, may continue to play as an Impact Player if not fully fit to field. For Delhi Capitals, Captain Axar Patel's availability is uncertain after missing the previous game due to illness.
The Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur has generally produced good batting surfaces this season, with an average first-innings score around 200. While pacers might find some early assistance, the conditions are expected to favor batsmen. Clear weather is forecast for the evening, with temperatures around 30-34°C, though dew could be a factor later in the game.
With a top-two finish and a favorable playoff route at stake, Punjab Kings enter this contest as strong favorites against an eliminated Delhi Capitals side. However, Delhi, playing without the pressure of qualification, could still pose a challenge.
