Key Highlights:
In what promises to be a high-octane fixture at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium tonight, Marcus Stoinis will be at the heart of Punjab Kings’ campaign revival as they lock horns with Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Match 34 of IPL 2025. With both teams tied on 8 points and jockeying for playoff contention, Stoinis’ performance could tilt the scales for PBKS.
Returning to face his former franchise on a ground he knows well, Stoinis is not only a proven match-winner with the bat but also a handy bowling option — making him a premium Cricbuzz fantasy asset today.
Marcus Stoinis at Chinnaswamy: Experience That Matters
Stoinis spent a memorable season with RCB in 2019, scoring 211 runs at an average of 52.75 and showcasing his ability to adapt quickly to Bengaluru’s conditions. The short square boundaries and batting-friendly pitch at Chinnaswamy align perfectly with his power-hitting capabilities.
“He’s the kind of player who can shift gears instantly — especially on a pitch like this,” a Cricbuzz analyst noted.
PBKS Count on Stoinis for Middle-Order Firepower
So far in IPL 2025, Stoinis has scored 59 runs in 5 innings at a strike rate nearing 148 — often coming in during tough phases and stabilizing the innings. He has also bowled key overs when the main bowlers were under pressure, showing his all-round value.
What makes Stoinis vital today:
- PBKS top-order has lacked consistency
- Death-overs scoring has depended on Stoinis and Livingstone
- His ability to clear the ropes and bowl medium pace offers balance in the XI
💡 Cricbuzz Fantasy Tip: Slot Stoinis as a vice-captain option — dual role in batting + potential 2 overs with the ball.
Key Matchups Involving Marcus Stoinis
Stoinis is expected to face off with:
- Yash Dayal and Mohammed Siraj in the death overs
- Glenn Maxwell as a key off-spin matchup, potentially when PBKS bat first
- Could also bowl to Phil Salt in the powerplay if PBKS rotate their bowlers early
“If he gets set, 40 off 20 balls is always on the cards,” said former Aussie cricketer Tom Moody.
What to Expect From Marcus Stoinis in Today’s RCB vs PBKS Match
Stoinis is likely to:
- Bat at No. 5 and take control if PBKS suffer early losses
- Be sent up the order if the team looks to accelerate in the 10–15 over phase
- Bowl 1–2 overs if matchups allow — especially against right-handers like Kohli and Dinesh Karthik
His strike rate this season reflects intent, and on a ground like Chinnaswamy, even 20-25 runs in the final overs can make a massive difference.
Pitch and Venue Report: Chinnaswamy Still a Batter’s Paradise
The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium remains one of the highest scoring venues in the IPL. Average first innings score here in IPL 2025 is 199. Dew is likely, so the toss winner may choose to bowl first.
What this means for Stoinis:
- Ideal for big-hitters like him
- Opportunities to exploit slower bowlers and part-timers
- Could come in early if early wickets fall or late to finish strong
Cricbuzz Fantasy Watchlist – Must-Have Picks
Top Picks:
- Marcus Stoinis – All-round option with past RCB experience
- Phil Salt – Form + conditions favor him
- Virat Kohli – In vintage touch and playing at home
- Liam Livingstone – High-impact potential
Differentials:
- Arshdeep Singh – If PBKS bowl first
- Cameron Green – Unpredictable but impactful
- Sam Curran – Only if bowling upfront in powerplay
Stoinis Could Be PBKS’s Game-Changer Tonight
As PBKS battle to stay alive in the playoffs race, Marcus Stoinis stands out as a player who can handle the pressure, switch momentum, and deliver in both departments. Against his former team and at a venue he’s mastered before, the stage is set for him to make headlines once again.
Whether it’s a finishing cameo, a game-changing over, or a fielding brilliance, expect Stoinis to leave a mark tonight.
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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