Key Highlights:
Liam Livingstone will be at the heart of Punjab Kings’ strategy as they take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) tonight at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Match 34 of IPL 2025. The dynamic English all-rounder, capable of explosive batting and crucial middle-overs spin, is expected to play a decisive role on one of the flattest batting tracks in India.
PBKS, still in the playoff hunt with 8 points, need experienced performers to step up — and Livingstone, with his history of game-changing contributions, is one of their biggest hopes.
Liam Livingstone’s Form in IPL 2025 So Far
Livingstone has had a measured season so far:
- Runs: 83
- Average: 20.75
- Strike Rate: 133.87
- Top Score: 54 vs Gujarat Titans
- Wickets: 2 from 9 overs
- Best Figures: 2/28
“He may not have fired every game, but he’s that one over away from turning things around — with bat or ball,” said PBKS coach Trevor Bayliss.
Why Chinnaswamy Stadium Suits Livingstone’s Style
The short square boundaries and true bounce of Chinnaswamy are perfect for Livingstone’s fearless strokeplay. He’s cleared boundaries here with ease in past IPL seasons, and the pitch rarely offers turn — making it easier for him to dominate spin as well.
Cricbuzz Insight: Among all PBKS players, Livingstone has the highest six-per-ball ratio at this venue.
Liam Livingstone in Cricbuzz Fantasy Spotlight
Livingstone is a dream fantasy asset:
- Bats in the top 5
- Can bowl 2–3 overs of spin
- Electric fielder with great catching ability
Fantasy Roles Today:
- Captain/Vice-Captain candidate for grand leagues
- Utility pick in smaller leagues due to all-round capability
- Ideal for batting-friendly venue like Bengaluru
💡 Cricbuzz Fantasy Tip: If PBKS bat first, consider Livingstone as captain — he often thrives when setting targets.
PBKS Betting on Livingstone’s Dual Threat
With Punjab’s top order under scrutiny and the middle order still finding rhythm, Livingstone will likely be tasked with:
- Consolidating the innings if early wickets fall
- Attacking spin in overs 10–16
- Bowling against RCB right-handers like Kohli and Karthik in the middle overs
“He’s a trump card. He gives us flexibility, both as a finisher and a breakthrough option,” said Shikhar Dhawan.
Key Matchups to Watch for Liam Livingstone
- Vs Glenn Maxwell’s off-spin – Livingstone has dominated spinners with a SR over 150 in IPL
- Bowling to Virat Kohli – Has dismissed him once in previous editions
- Vs Siraj/Boult at the death – Proven six-hitter against pace when well-set
What to Expect from Liam Livingstone in RCB vs PBKS Match
- Expect him to bat around No. 4 or 5, depending on PBKS’ start
- He could be promoted if PBKS want a power-hitting boost in overs 7–12
- Likely to bowl 1–2 overs, especially if Chinnaswamy offers minimal turn and RCB rely heavily on right-handers
- His six-hitting and smart bowling could shift momentum in crucial phases
Pitch & Conditions Report – Chinnaswamy Overview
- Average 1st Innings Score: 199 in IPL 2025
- Dew factor: Prominent after 8 PM, favoring chasing teams
- Spin-friendly? Only marginal; favoring batsmen
- Strategy: Teams may pick extra pace options with cutters or variation bowlers
This puts pressure on PBKS to bat deep — and Livingstone’s presence at the crease adds critical late-order firepower.
Why Liam Livingstone is PBKS’s Key Player Today
As PBKS look to gain ground in the tightly contested points table, Liam Livingstone could be the difference between two points and none. His ability to impact multiple phases of the game — with bat, ball, or even in the field — makes him a three-dimensional weapon that RCB will be wary of.
The Englishman might just deliver a performance that reignites PBKS’s campaign.
Disclaimer
This is a sponsored post in partnership with Cricbuzz. The content, including fantasy tips, projections, and match analysis, has been created for promotional purposes. Hindustan Herald and Cricbuzz do not guarantee the accuracy of fantasy outcomes or match predictions. Readers are advised to use personal discretion while participating in fantasy sports or related activities. Fantasy gaming involves financial risk and can be addictive — please play responsibly.
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