The league phase of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is approaching its climax, and Monday’s clash between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur, carries significant weight in determining the final positions on the table. Both teams have already secured playoff berths, but a top-two finish—allowing two opportunities to qualify for the final—is still up for grabs. Punjab enters the contest in second place with 17 points, while Mumbai trails closely in fourth with 16.
Punjab Kings Overview
Punjab Kings have enjoyed a largely positive campaign, but a recent slip-up against the Delhi Capitals dented their chances of finishing in the top two. Despite posting a competitive 206 for 8, their bowlers failed to defend the total, losing with six wickets and three balls to spare. The team must now regroup for one last league match that could significantly shape their playoff route.
Batting has been the hallmark of Punjab’s success. Prabhsimran Singh has emerged as a standout performer, amassing 486 runs in 13 innings with attacking flair. He has been complemented by Priyansh Arya, who has contributed 362 runs with several rapid starts. In the middle order, captain Shreyas Iyer has anchored the innings superbly, scoring 488 runs at an imposing strike rate of 172.43. His calm presence has often stabilized Punjab’s innings in high-pressure situations.
Nehal Wadhera, while not producing big scores, has chipped in with impactful cameos, maintaining a strike rate above 150. All-rounders Marcus Stoinis and Josh Inglis have played crucial supporting roles. Stoinis’ 44 off 16 against Delhi demonstrated his ability to change games in short bursts, while Shashank Singh has handled the lower order with composure, particularly in tight finishes.
Bowling, however, remains an area of concern. While Arshdeep Singh has delivered reliably with 16 wickets at a reasonable economy, others have struggled. Marco Jansen’s recent form has been below expectations. The potential return of Yuzvendra Chahal, who missed the last game, could strengthen their attack, especially if he combines effectively with Arshdeep and Harpreet Brar.
Punjab Kings Predicted XI: Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Josh Inglis (wk), Shreyas Iyer (c), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Azmatullah Omarzai, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh
Impact Player: Suryansh Shedge / Harpreet Brar
Mumbai Indians Overview
Mumbai Indians have surged into the playoffs on the back of seven wins in their last eight matches, including several dominant performances. With their qualification already confirmed, this match offers an opportunity to seal a top-two spot depending on other results.
Their top order has been functional, if not dominant. Ryan Rickelton, Will Jacks, and Rohit Sharma have laid decent platforms, although none has consistently dominated. The real turnaround for Mumbai has been in their middle order. Suryakumar Yadav is arguably the most in-form batter in the tournament, scoring 583 runs in 13 games with an average over 70 and a strike rate exceeding 170. His unbeaten 73 in the last match exemplifies his match-winning capability.
Supporting him are Tilak Varma and captain Hardik Pandya. While Varma has been a reliable run-accumulator, Pandya has made vital contributions with both bat and ball, taking 13 wickets albeit at a high economy rate. Naman Dhir has also added value with timely cameos.
Mumbai’s bowling attack appears to be peaking at the right time. Jasprit Bumrah has led the charge with 16 wickets in just nine games, maintaining an economy under 6.5. Trent Boult has delivered consistently in both powerplay and death overs. The addition of Mitchell Santner has added a spin option with control, as highlighted by his 3 for 11 in a recent match.
Mumbai Indians Predicted XI: Ryan Rickelton (wk), Rohit Sharma, Will Jacks, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya (c), Naman Dhir, Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah
Impact Player: Karn Sharma
Pitch, Conditions, and Tactical Considerations
The pitch at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur typically offers good bounce and pace. Batters can score freely once set, and the small ground dimensions encourage big totals. Dew in the evening makes bowling second difficult, especially for spinners who may struggle to grip the ball.
Conditions are expected to be dry and warm, with no rain interruptions forecast. The venue has seen high-scoring chases in recent matches, including Delhi Capitals’ successful pursuit of 207 against Punjab. Based on recent results, the toss-winning captain is likely to field first to exploit dew and chase a target with confidence.
Prediction
This fixture holds major implications for the playoff structure. A win for either side could propel them into the top two, granting a valuable second chance in the knockout phase. For Punjab, it’s about bouncing back from a disappointing loss and reaffirming their credentials. For Mumbai, the focus is on maintaining momentum and securing a strategic advantage.
Both sides are well-matched on paper, with explosive batting units and capable bowlers. However, recent form tips the scale slightly in Mumbai’s favor. Their ability to perform under pressure and the form of key individuals such as Bumrah and Suryakumar Yadav provide them with a slight edge.
Prediction: Mumbai Indians are expected to come out on top and strengthen their hold on a top-two finish. Likelihood: 55–45 in MI’s favor.