PBKS vs RCB: Why Liam Livingstone Is Not Playing Today’s IPL 2025 Match?

In the 37th match of IPL 2025, Punjab Kings (PBKS) are taking on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the newly built Chandigarh Stadium. This is the reverse fixture of the last clash between the two teams where Punjab Kings defeated RCB quite comfortably.

One of the biggest surprises before the toss was the exclusion of England all-rounder Liam Livingstone from RCB’s playing XI. Livingstone, known for his big-hitting ability and handy bowling, has not been in great touch this season. His performances have not lived up to the expectations, which has likely led to this decision.

RCB has replaced him with West Indies all-rounder Romario Shepherd. With Shepherd coming in, RCB is probably aiming for better balance in their team, especially in the bowling department. Shepherd brings both power-hitting in the lower order and can bowl with good pace, which might help RCB in tight situations.

After facing a defeat against Punjab Kings in their last encounter just a few days ago, Royal Challengers Bengaluru will be desperate to bounce back in this game. The team is expected to come out with a fresh strategy and better intent to turn things around.

Teams:

Punjab Kings (Playing XI): Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer(c), Josh Inglis(w), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Playing XI): Philip Salt, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar(c), Jitesh Sharma(w), Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Romario Shepherd, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Suyash Sharma, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal