RR vs PBKS: Who Will Pick Up The Most Wickets In IPL 2025 Match 18?

Probuddha Bhattacharjee

Arshdeep Singh for PBKS [Source: iplt20.com]Arshdeep Singh for PBKS [Source: iplt20.com]

As the Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings prepare to face off at the PCA Stadium, all eyes will be on three key bowlers who could make the difference in this high-stakes encounter. Based on historical head-to-head performances, venue statistics, and current form, these three bowlers can emerge as the prime candidates to dominate with the ball.

1. Arshdeep Singh

Punjab Kings' left-arm pacer, Arshdeep Singh has consistently troubled Rajasthan Royals' batsmen with his precision at the death and skillful execution of yorkers. His ability to extract movement early and nail his yorkers at the death makes him a constant threat throughout the innings.

  • RR Specialist: Boasts an impressive record against Rajasthan with 5 wickets in 17 overs at an economy of 9.59, consistently picking up key wickets in clutch situations
  • Death Over Dominance: Has dismissed Shimron Hetmyer and Riyan Parag multiple times in pressure situations, making him a vital weapon in the closing stages
  • Home Ground Advantage: At PCA Stadium, has claimed 8 wickets in 18 overs with excellent knowledge of the local conditions and pitch behaviour

2. Wanindu Hasaranga

Wanindu Hasaranga [Source: iplt20.com]Wanindu Hasaranga [Source: iplt20.com]

The Sri Lankan leg-spinner, Wanindu Hasaranga has been a revelation for Rajasthan Royals, bringing a perfect blend of wicket-taking ability and run containment. His variations and deceptive googly make him particularly effective against Punjab Kings' aggressive middle order.

  • Recent Form Explosion: Has already claimed 5 wickets in just 7 overs in IPL 2025, demonstrating his wicket-taking prowess and ability to break partnerships
  • PBKS Middle-Order Nemesis: Has dismissed Glenn Maxwell twice in their previous encounters, establishing a psychological edge over Punjab's key batsman
  • Match-Winning Ability: Capable of turning games with multi-wicket spells, as evidenced by his economy rate of 9.75 despite batsmen taking aggressive approaches against him

3. Tushar Deshpande

While often flying under the radar, Tushar Deshpande has emerged as Rajasthan's most effective bowler against Punjab Kings. His skiddy pace and ability to hit the deck hard makes him particularly effective on the PCA pitch.

  • Punjab Kings Specialist: Has claimed 5 wickets in 8.3 overs against PBKS, boasting the best strike rate among all RR bowlers against this opposition
  • Versatile Weapon: Effective in both powerplay and middle overs, giving captain Sanju Samson flexibility in his bowling rotations
  • Big-Match Temperament: Has produced his best performances in high-pressure games, with a knack for breaking partnerships at crucial junctures

With the pitch at PCA Stadium traditionally offering something for both pacers and spinners, these three bowlers could well determine the outcome of this fascinating contest. Arshdeep's left-arm angle, Hasaranga's crafty variations, and Deshpande's craftiness a compelling bowling narrative as these two evenly matched sides prepare to battle for crucial points in IPL 2025.