The Indian Premier League 2025 served up another electrifying encounter at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. The match, which took place on May 18 at 3:30 PM local time, featured an impressive performance by Punjab Kings (PBKS) as they went head-to-head with Rajasthan Royals (RR) in a high-scoring contest that captivated fans.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, PBKS put up a remarkable total of 219/5 in their allotted 20 overs, driving the current run rate (CRR) to a thrilling 10.95 runs per over. Nehal Wadhera starred with a blistering knock of 70 off just 37 deliveries, setting the tone for PBKS’s batting carnival. His innings was well complemented by Shashank Singh, who played an invaluable role by remaining unbeaten on 59, constructing an innings that was both spirited and strategic.
The middle-order of PBKS was particularly instrumental, as they collectively amassed 180 runs — the highest total contributed by a middle-order in any IPL match ever, breaking the previous record of 174 runs. As if that weren’t enough evidence of RR’s woes in the field, the home side has shockingly let slip 23 catches this season, more than any other team - a fact that certainly impacted their outcomes.
This match added to the list of high-octane first innings played at the Jaipur venue, with PBKS’s score of 219/5 joining other memorable innings like Mumbai Indians’ 217/2 against RR and RR’s own 214/2 versus Sunrisers Hyderabad. Each of these innings showcased the batsmen’s prowess on what appeared to be a batting-friendly pitch, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats and eagerly anticipating every moment of action. “#”“”