IPL 2023: Match 8, RR vs PBKS Match Prediction – Who will win today’s IPL match between Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings?

After a terrific win over Sunrisers Hyderabad in their opening match of IPL 2023, Rajasthan Royals (RR) are all set to host Punjab Kings (PBKS) on April 5 at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.

The Shikhar Dhawan-led side defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by seven runs (DLS Method) in their opening match and will be confident ahead of taking on the Royals. Even though Liam Livingstone and Kagiso Rabada were unavailable, Punjab Kings were brilliant with both bat and ball as Dhawan and Prabhsimran Singh gave the team a flying start. 

Batting at number three, Bhanuka Rajapaksa smashed 50 runs off 32 deliveries while Sam Curran and Jitesh Sharma played quick cameos to help PBKS post 191 runs in 20 overs. With the ball, youngster Arshdeep Singh was sensational as he absolutely destroyed KKR’s top order. Rahul Chahar and Sikandar Raza were very impactful with the ball as well.

Coming to Rajasthan, their top order is on song at the moment and they have the capability to change the complexion of the game at any time. Jos Buttler (54 off 22) gave them a perfect start in the last match while Yashasvi Jaiswal looked rock solid with 54 off 37 deliveries. Later Sanju Samson too scored a half-century as Rajasthan posted 203 runs on board after 20 overs.

Check here 👉 Rajasthan Royals vs Punjab Kings, Match 8 - Live Cricket Score

Spin wizard Yuzvendra Chahal impressed with the ball, taking a four-wicket haul. To make his return to the playing XI of the national team, the ongoing IPL is very important for the bowler and his performance explain his intentions. On the other hand, Trent Boult picked up two wickets while KM Asif proved to be economical.

RR vs PBKS Match Details

Rajasthan Royals vs Punjab Kings, 8th Match, IPL 2023

Venue: Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati

Date & Time: Wednesday, April 5, 7:30 PM IST

Telecast & Streaming Details: Star Sports Network and JioCinema

RR vs PBKS Pitch Report

The surface at Barasara Cricket Stadium is expected to help the batters. A high-scoring encounter is likely and bowling first will be ideal since dew can play role later. Anything above 200 will be a challenging total.

RR vs PBKS Probable Playing XIs

Rajasthan Royals (RR):

Yashasvi Jaiswal, Jos Buttler, Sanju Samson (wk/c), Devdutt Padikkal, Shimron Hetmyer, Riyan Parag, Jason Holder, Ravichandran Ashwin, Trent Boult, KM Asif, Yuzvendra Chahal

Punjab Kings (PBKS):

Shikhar Dhawan (c), Prabhsimran Singh, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Liam Livingstone, Shahrukh Khan, Sam Curran, Harpreet Brar, Rahul Chahar, Kagiso Rabada, Arshdeep Singh

RR vs PBKS Probable Best Performers

Probable Best Batter

Jos Buttler:

Jos 'the Boss' gave Rajasthan a phenomenal start in the last match. As the pitch is expected to favour the batters in the forthcoming match, he is expected to wreak havoc in the middle once again. He finished as the leading run-scorer of the tournament last year and would be aiming the same in 2023.

Probable Best Bowler

Sam Curran:

Sam Curran’s variations with the ball can work wonders against Rajasthan. He was poor with the ball against KKR but the England all-rounder has the capability to bounce back and make a huge impact.

Today's Match Prediction: Rajasthan Royals to win the match

Check here 👉 RR vs PBKS Dream11 Team Today

Disclaimer: This prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.