RR vs PBKS Dream11 Predictions: 3 Players You Should Avoid In IPL 2025 Match 18

Probuddha Bhattacharjee

Yashasvi Jaiswal for RR [Source: @Xpress_Sports/x.com]Yashasvi Jaiswal for RR [Source: @Xpress_Sports/x.com]

While many fantasy users will be targeting popular names for the Rajasthan Royals vs Punjab Kings clash at the PCA Stadium, our data analysis reveals three players who could underperform despite their reputation. Here's who you should consider avoiding in your fantasy lineups:

1. Yashasvi Jaiswal (RR)

Despite being one of Rajasthan's most hyped young talents, Yashasvi Jaiswal's numbers suggest he's a risky fantasy pick for this particular matchup:

  • Poor Current Form: Has struggled significantly in IPL 2025 with just 34 runs in 3 matches at a disappointing strike rate of 90.28
  • Vulnerable to PBKS New Ball Attack: Has been dismissed twice by Marcus Stoinis in just 8 balls (SR: 100.00), showing a clear technical vulnerability
  • Declining Numbers: His performances against PBKS have been inconsistent with scores of 50, 39, 11, and 4, trending downward in recent encounters

2. Glenn Maxwell (PBKS)

Glenn Maxwell or the "Big Show" as he is called by fans is always a popular fantasy pick, but several factors suggest he could disappoint against Rajasthan Royals:

  • Terrible Current Form: Has scored a duck (0 runs from 1 ball) in his only innings of IPL 2025, showing no batting rhythm
  • Struggles Against Spin: Has been dismissed by Maheesh Theekshana in previous matchups, and will face the in-form Wanindu Hasaranga on a pitch that might assist spinners
  • Inconsistent Track Record vs RR: Despite averaging 33.00 against Rajasthan, his recent scores (77, 54, 1, 0) show extreme volatility, making him a high-risk selection

3. Jofra Archer (RR)

One of the premium premier fantasy assets, Jofra Archer's numbers suggest you should look elsewhere for your bowling options:

  • Expensive Economy Rate: Has conceded 122 runs in just 10.4 overs against PBKS with an economy of 11.44, making him vulnerable to negative fantasy points
  • Limited Wicket-Taking Potential: Has managed just 1 wicket against PBKS despite bowling over 10 overs, showing a clear struggle against their batting lineup
  • Outperformed by Teammates: Other RR bowlers like Tushar Deshpande (5 wickets) and Wanindu Hasaranga (5 wickets) have demonstrated much better wicket-taking ability this season

Fantasy players would be wise to consider alternatives to these three players, despite their star power and popularity. The data strongly suggests they face significant challenges in this particular matchup that could limit their fantasy output at the PCA Stadium.