IPL 2024 – Match 65, RR vs PBKS Match Prediction: Who Will Win Today’s Match?

The Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) will face off in Match 65 of IPL 2024 at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati on Wednesday, May 15.

Rajasthan Royals have struggled recently, suffering three consecutive defeats, and have yet to secure their playoff spot. Despite reaching 16 points first and being in a strong position to qualify, they still need one more win to guarantee their place.

Punjab Kings, on the other hand, are approaching Wednesday’s contest with nothing to lose. Although their campaign ended with a 60-run defeat against RCB at Dharamshala, they will aim to finish the season on a high note by spoiling RR’s chances and securing a couple of wins.

What to expect?

The Barsapara Stadium typically offers a batting-friendly pitch, as seen in last season’s matches where three scores above 190 were achieved. However, the ball tends to move under the lights, making cautious early batting essential for a solid foundation. Both teams possess powerful batters who will aim to exploit the favourable conditions.

RR vs PBKS Toss Prediction

The Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati has witnessed two IPL matches, both won by the teams batting first. These matches saw high scores, with teams nearly reaching the 200-run mark and maintaining an average run rate of 9.13 runs per over. Given its batting-friendly nature, the team winning the toss is likely to opt to bat first.

RR vs PBKS Strengths & Weaknesses

RR Strengths:

Captain Sanju Samson and Riyan Parag have been standout performers with the bat. Samson has scored 486 runs at an average of 60.75, while Parag has amassed 483 runs at an average of 60.38. With Jos Buttler’s absence due to national duties, RR will rely heavily on Samson and Parag.

RR Weaknesses:

Yuzvendra Chahal‘s recent form has dipped, failing to take more than one wicket in the last seven games. Trent Boult has also struggled to take wickets with the new ball in the last three games, affecting Rajasthan’s performance.

PBKS Strengths:

Shashank Singh has been consistent, scoring 352 runs at an average of 58.67. In bowling, Harshal Patel has claimed 20 wickets in 12 games, being the joint-highest wicket-taker.

PBKS Weaknesses:

Apart from Singh and Ashutosh Sharma, no other PBKS batsman has consistently scored runs. Additionally, their spin bowling and economy rate have been issues this season.

Conclusion:

The clash between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Barsapara Stadium promises to be an exciting battle. RR aims to secure a playoff spot, while PBKS looks to end their season on a high note. Expect a high-scoring encounter with both teams giving their all for a crucial win.