PBKS vs RCB Prediction and Playing 11 - 61st Match IPL 2026

Author: Brian Smithson Verified Last Update: 17 May 2026, 09:32

The 61st match of the Indian Premier League will see Punjab Kings face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a crucial contest with playoff implications. RCB will aim to continue their recent dominance over PBKS, while Punjab will look to bounce back with a strong performance in front of their fans. In this article, we cover the match prediction, probable playing 11, pitch conditions, and key players to watch for the PBKS vs RCB clash.

17 May 2026 at 15:30

PUNJAB

VS

BENGALURU

PBKS vs RCB Dream11 Prediction Today Match Details

Punjab Kings take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru in an exciting IPL clash expected to deliver a high-scoring contest. Both teams feature explosive batters and impactful all-rounders, making this match crucial for fantasy cricket players. The pitch is likely to support batting early, while pacers could get assistance during the death overs. For Dream11 prediction, selecting in-form top-order batters and reliable all-rounders could be the key to maximizing fantasy points.

PBKS vs RCB predictions

Match Details:

  • Date: 17th May 2026
  • Match: 61st match
  • Venue: Dharamsala
  • Time: 19:30 IST
  • Live Streaming: Jio Hotstar App
  • TV Broadcast: Starsports Network

PBKS vs RCB Toss Prediction, Weather and Pitch Report

The pitch at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium is expected to offer good batting conditions, while pacers could get some early movement and bounce due to the fresh surface and weather conditions in Dharamsala. As this is an afternoon match, dew is unlikely to play a major role in the second innings, which should keep conditions balanced for both teams. Punjab Kings have managed only one win at this venue this season, adding extra pressure ahead of this crucial encounter against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Teams winning the toss may prefer to bowl first considering the venue’s chasing trend, while a first-innings score of around 185-195 could prove competitive.

PBKS to Win Toss
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1.90
PBKS to Win Toss
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1.90

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Get ready for the Indian Premier League clash between Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru with exciting IPL betting bonuses and cashback promotions available for new users. Several betting platforms are offering first-deposit match bonuses, free bets, and enhanced odds, especially for today’s PBKS vs RCB match. Players can also unlock limited-time IPL promotional offers, including risk-free bets and bonus rewards on live match wagering.

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PBKS vs RCB Head-to-Head Records in IPL

  • Matches Played: 37
  • PBKS Won: 19
  • RCB Won: 18
  • No Result: –

Punjab Kings hold a slight edge over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in overall wins and have consistently provided tough competition to the Bengaluru side. Interestingly, RCB registered both the highest total of 241 and the lowest total of 84 against PBKS in IPL history. In their IPL 2025 meetings, RCB dominated by winning three consecutive matches, including the final, where they secured their maiden IPL title, while PBKS managed just one victory. PBKS will now be eager to settle the score, and a win here could not only provide redemption but also strengthen their chances of reaching the playoffs.

PBKS vs RCB 61st Match Playing XI Prediction

PBKS Dream XI Prediction: Shreyas Iyer (c), Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, Nehal Wadhera, Azmatullah Omarzai, Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, Marco Jansen, Suryansh Shegde, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh and Lockie Ferguson (Impact Player)

RCB Dream XI Prediction: Rajat Patidar (c), Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Tim David, Jitesh Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Jacob Bethell, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Rasikh Dhar, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma and Venkatesh Iyer (Impact Player)

PBKS vs RCB Betting Tips 61st Match

The 61st IPL match between Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru is expected to attract strong betting action with both teams fighting for crucial points. Bettors can look at top-order batting markets, as both sides feature aggressive powerplay hitters capable of scoring quickly. The odds may slightly favor RCB due to their recent dominance over PBKS, but Punjab’s strong home performances make them a valuable underdog option. Over/under betting on total runs could also be popular, especially if the pitch favors batting and dew impacts the second innings. Live betting markets during the powerplay and death overs may offer the best value, particularly on player performance and team run-rate predictions.

Total Sixes: 25
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2.80
Total Runs: Over 400 runs
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2.00
Each Team will score 200 runs: Yes
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Individual Total runs: P Arya to score over 40 runs
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1.85
Match Winner: PBKS
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2.50