Punjab Kings Debut Mitch Owen as Rajasthan Royals Captain Sanju Samson Returns

In the ongoing 2025 Indian Premier League match between Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur, Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and chose to bat first, relying on their strong batting lineup. Punjab Kings introduced Big Bash League sensation Mitchell Owen, who replaced the injured Glenn Maxwell and made his IPL debut after a century-winning final in the BBL. Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson returned to the team after recovering from an abdominal injury, opting to bat lower in the order to accommodate young opener Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who made a record-breaking century previously. Samson also confirmed the inclusion of Kwena Maphaka in place of Jofra Archer, who did not rejoin the IPL. Punjab Kings are aiming to win two of their remaining three matches to secure a playoff spot, while Rajasthan Royals have already been eliminated from contention. Both teams made strategic changes to their lineups ahead of the match to adapt to player availability and pitch conditions.