PBKS vs DC – 24 May 2025, Jaipur | IPL Match 66 Preview
Introduction
Match 66 of the IPL 2025 season is set to light up the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur as the Punjab Kings (PBKS) take on the Delhi Capitals (DC) in a crucial encounter. With the playoff race intensifying, both teams are looking to solidify their spots. PBKS, under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer, have a strong mix of Indian talent and international firepower. Meanwhile, Axar Patel’s Delhi Capitals come armed with experienced campaigners like Faf du Plessis, KL Rahul, and dynamic bowlers such as Kuldeep Yadav and Mustafizur Rahman.
Venue Overview: Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur
– Pitch Report: Traditionally a balanced surface, offering early swing for pacers and assistance for spinners as the game progresses. A 170+ score can be considered competitive.
– Ground Stats: Chasing sides have had more success here due to the fast outfield and manageable boundaries.
Team Form & Stats
Team | Last 5 Matches | Points | Net Run Rate |
Punjab Kings | L-W-W-L-W | 14 | +0.65 |
Delhi Capitals | W-L-W-L-L | 12 | -0.10 |
PBKS are in better form, riding on strong middle-order contributions and consistent bowling.- DC are struggling to string wins but remain dangerous due to their match-winning individuals.
Players to Watch
Punjab Kings (PBKS)
- Shreyas Iyer (Captain): The experienced campaigner anchors the innings and handles pressure well.
- Glenn Maxwell & Marcus Stoinis: This Aussie duo can change the game with explosive batting and handy bowling.
- Yuzvendra Chahal: The leg-spinner is a key weapon in the middle overs.
- Arshdeep Singh: Known for his precision in death overs, especially with yorkers and slower deliveries.
Delhi Capitals (DC)
- Faf du Plessis: Veteran opener who can provide a stable and aggressive start.
- KL Rahul: Back in the Capitals’ camp, his experience and calmness add value at the top.
- Axar Patel (Captain): An all-rounder who contributes with both bat and ball, plus sharp captaincy.
- Kuldeep Yadav: Among the top wicket-takers in the tournament with his mystery spin.
Head-to-Head
- Overall Matches: PBKS – 16 wins | DC – 15 wins
- Last Meeting (IPL 2024): PBKS won by 6 wickets chasing 168, with Iyer scoring a match-winning 70*.
Match Dynamics & Key Battles
- Top Order Clash: du Plessis and Rahul vs Arshdeep and Bartlett
- Middle Overs Tussle: Maxwell and Stoinis vs Kuldeep and Axar
- Death Overs Duel: Prabhsimran and Inglis vs Mustafizur and Natarajan
Strategy Focus
- PBKS: Bat deep, use spin in the middle, and rely on pace at the death.
- DC: Use swing early, control runs with Kuldeep, and unleash hitters like Stubbs and Ferreira in the final overs.
Match Prediction
On current form and squad depth, Punjab Kings may have a slight edge. However, Delhi Capitals’ unpredictable brilliance can never be discounted. Expect a tight game with momentum swinging till the last over.