IPL Bulletin For May 29: From PBKS-RCB Qualifier 1 Clash To Justin Langer Denying Prithvi Shaw Of LSG Deal

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IPL Bulletin For May 29: As the IPL 2025 Playoffs kick off, the spotlight is firmly on the Qualifier 1 showdown between Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Mullanpur.

With team news, selection uncertainties, and off-field controversies making headlines, the build-up to this crucial clash has been anything but quiet. From injury concerns and player availability to tactical calls and unexpected snubs, the road to the final is already heating up. Here's a look at the top 10 news.

1) PBKS Face RCB In Qualifier 1 Of IPL 2025

Punjab Kings (PBKS) face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2025 at the New PCA Stadium in Mullanpur on May 29.

2) What Happened The Last Time PBKS Faced RCB In IPL?

RCB defeated PBKS in their last IPL meeting on 20th April by a margin of 7 wickets, while PBKS got the better of the Bengaluru franchise two days earlier in a rain-marred match by 5 wickets.

3) What If PBKS vs RCB Match Is Washed Out Due To Rain?

If PBKS vs RCB match is washed out due to rain then Punjab will qualify for the Final by virtue of finishing at the top in the league stage as there is no Reserve Day.

4) Mumbai Indians Tackle 'Disinterested' Rohit Sharma Ahead of IPL 2025 Playoffs

Rohit Sharma has struggled for form in IPL 2025, mostly featuring as an Impact Player for Mumbai Indians. Despite a few entertaining knocks, he hasn't looked his best for a second consecutive season. With MI in the Playoffs, his form will be crucial. However, former India pacer Atul Wassan feels Rohit has lost his edge: "He seems to be a bit disinterested; the motivation, the fire in the belly, has satiated. He has won almost everything, from winning the T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy to retiring from Test cricket. Hence, to motivate yourself to play at this level of cricket every day is a very tough task."

5) R Ashwin Lashes Out At Rishabh Pant For Digvesh Rathi Run-Out

R Ashwin has criticised Rishabh Pant for withdrawing a run-out appeal at the non-striker's end during the LSG vs RCB clash in Lucknow. At a key moment, Digvesh Rathi attempted to dismiss Jitesh, who was out of his crease, but the third umpire ruled it invalid as the ball had already been delivered. It was later revealed that Pant had withdrawn the appeal, earning praise for his sportsmanship. However, Ashwin disagreed, saying Pant should have supported Digvesh and not made him feel small.

6) 29th May Mock Drill To Affect PBKS vs RCB Match?

The Government of India has announced Operation Shield, with mock drills scheduled for May 29 in border states like Haryana, J&K, and Gujarat. Chandigarh will also hold drills that evening. However, Punjab may conduct its drills earlier, on May 3, as per The Indian Express. Since Mullanpur, where the IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 is set to be held, falls under Punjab's jurisdiction, and no drills are planned there on May 29, the match is expected to proceed without disruption.

7) Why LSG Finished Ahead Of KKR Despite Same Points And Inferior NRR?

In IPL 2025, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) ranked above Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) despite both teams finishing with the same points and LSG having a lower net run rate. The reason lies in the tie-breaker rules: when teams are level on points, the number of wins is considered first. LSG had six wins compared to KKR's five, which placed them higher on the table.

8) Will Yuzvendra Chahal Play PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1?

Yuzvenda Chahal didn't play the last two IPL matches for Punjab due to a minor niggle and was seen practicing in fielding drills on 28th May. We have to wait and watch and see whether he makes it to the playing XI or not.

9) Justin Langer Denied Prithvi Shaw IPL Deal With LSG

According to sources cited by CricBlogger, Prithvi Shaw was close to joining the Lucknow Super Giants, but head coach Justin Langer reportedly changed his mind at the last moment, causing the deal to collapse. Shaw eventually went unsold at the auction, leaving many fans and experts disappointed, especially since he was available for just ₹30 lakh. In contrast, LSG chose to invest ₹4 crore in Ayush Badoni, a decision that has drawn significant attention and debate within cricketing circles.

10) Jansen OUT, David Likely To Be Unavailable For PBKS vs RCB Clash

Marco Jansen has headed back home to gear up for the World Test Championship final against Australia, scheduled to begin on June 11 in London. Meanwhile, RCB could be missing Tim David after he seemed to suffer a hamstring injury during the May 23 clash against SRH, which also forced him to sit out the following game against LSG.