The stakes are sky high with IPL 2025 reaching its business end, and the clash between the Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC) in Dharamsala could be a true end-all for both these sides. This encounter is dubbed the North Indian Derby and comes with massive implications. A loss for Delhi Capitals could mean that it’s the end for them this season, all but ensuring PBKS’ spot in the playoffs. A win for DC could reignite their season and playoff hopes — but it could even propel them to third in the table.
In recent weeks, Delhi have been on an unstable run — they have won just one of their last five matches. Despite their middle order having the grit and stability, their top order has looked unsettled and out of rhythm. Although KL Rahul got a roaring start to the season, the form dip has been evident, but historically speaks volumes about his performances with former franchises, and Delhi will hope to see a spark from that aspect. Delhi will need to take control of their own destiny, and it can only come with consistency and purpose, because their rain-affected game against SRH handed them a lucky point.
However, Punjab Kings have been one of the standout teams in the tournament. With head coach Ricky Ponting and skipper Shreyas Iyer in charge, the squad has made strides in developing a sense of unity and sharpening its clarity on the field. Sure, PBKS have a strong domestic batting core, depth all along their lineup, and reliable pace options – meaning they appear a comprehensive T20 unit. Delhi also has a fragile top order too which might suit them should Dharamsala’s pace-friendly surface is favoured by the bowlers such as Arshdeep Singh and Marco Jansen.
However, DC will depend upon people like Mitchell Starc and Mukesh Kumar to create some movement. If spin gets turned on, then it will be on Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel to arrest PBKS’s big-hitting batters. It is going to be an exhilarating, high-stakes battle.
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