Key Highlights:
As the IPL 2025 Match 31 between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) begins in Mullanpur, there’s a major talking point — the debut of Xavier Bartlett, the Australian pacer, for PBKS. With Lockie Ferguson ruled out for the rest of the season due to injury, Bartlett steps in to provide depth to the PBKS bowling attack in this crucial contest.
Recent Form: PBKS vs KKR
PBKS:
- Recent Matches: W L W L W
- Current Position: 6th on the points table (6 points)
- Key Player: Shreyas Iyer — The captain has been in superb form with a strike rate of 208 this season. His leadership will be crucial to PBKS’s chances.
KKR:
- Recent Matches: W L W L W
- Current Position: 5th on the points table (6 points)
- Key Player: Andre Russell — The big-hitting allrounder has been missed this season, but KKR will need his explosive batting and bowling to take them to victory.
Toss and Team Updates:
- Toss Winner: Shreyas Iyer chose to bat first for PBKS, citing dew as a factor in the second innings. The last two games at this venue have been won by teams batting first.
- KKR’s Change: KKR has brought in Anrich Nortje for Moeen Ali, strengthening their pace attack ahead of this high-stakes encounter.
Xavier Bartlett’s IPL Debut: What to Expect?
With Lockie Ferguson’s injury, Xavier Bartlett has been given his chance to shine. Known for his right-arm fast-medium pace, Bartlett has been in impressive form internationally, including his recent performances for Australia in both ODIs and T20Is. His addition brings a fresh dynamic to the PBKS bowling unit, which has been struggling in recent matches.
- What Bartlett Brings:
- A hard-hitting pacer who can bowl in the powerplay and at the death.
- Solid recent performances for Australia, including best figures of 4/17 in ODIs.
- A strong physical presence and an ability to generate pace.
Squad Overview
PBKS Squad:
- Shreyas Iyer (C) – Top-order Batter
- Glenn Maxwell – Batting Allrounder
- Yuzvendra Chahal – Bowler
- Vijaykumar Vyshak – Bowler
- Xavier Bartlett – Bowler
- Marcus Stoinis – Batting Allrounder
- And more…
KKR Squad:
- Ajinkya Rahane (C) – Top-order Batter
- Andre Russell – Allrounder
- Sunil Narine – Bowling Allrounder
- Anrich Nortje – Bowler
- Manish Pandey – Top-order Batter
- And more…
Match Strategy and Key Factors:
- PBKS: With Shreyas Iyer leading from the front, PBKS will rely on their strong top order, including Prabhsimran Singh and Glenn Maxwell, to post a big total. The team will also look to Xavier Bartlett and Arshdeep Singh to make early breakthroughs and control the death overs.
- KKR: KKR’s spin attack led by Sunil Narine will be vital to slow down PBKS’s aggressive batters. They will also need Andre Russell to play a big role with both bat and ball, especially given the absence of Moeen Ali.
Cricbuzz Live Score and Commentary
Stay updated with real-time scores, ball-by-ball commentary, and detailed analysis on Cricbuzz. Follow expert insights and track the action as PBKS looks to break into the top four, with Xavier Bartlett making his IPL debut in a crucial game.
Prediction: Who Will Take the Advantage?
- PBKS will look to set a challenging total with their explosive batting, but they will need strong performances from their bowlers, including Bartlett and Chahal, to defend it.
- KKR, with their experienced players like Rahane, Narine, and Russell, will look to contain the PBKS batting and chase down any target set by the hosts.
Prediction: PBKS to edge out a win, but KKR remains a formidable side capable of turning the match with their bowling and the return of Russell.
Where to Watch the Match
- Broadcast: Star Sports Network
- Streaming: JioHotstar
- Match Start Time: 7:30 PM IST
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. The match prediction and analysis provided here are based on recent performances and expert opinions. Please play responsibly if engaging in any form of fantasy sports or betting.
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