The Indian Premier League 2026 is delivering non-stop drama, and today’s clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium promises fireworks. Delhi Capitals (DC) host table-topping Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Match 35 on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 3:30 PM IST. With PBKS riding an unbeaten wave and DC desperate for a home turnaround, this afternoon showdown could reshape the points table.
Catch every moment live on JioHotstar (app and website) and Star Sports Network – the same platform bringing you the official preview video that’s building massive hype for this encounter.
Current Standings and Recent Form
Punjab Kings are the story of IPL 2026 so far. Sitting pretty at No. 1 with 11 points from 6 matches (5 wins, 1 no-result, NRR +1.420), they’re the only unbeaten side in the tournament. PBKS have chased down 200+ totals with ease, posted the season’s highest score, and defended totals successfully. Their latest win was a commanding 54-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants after a six-day break. Openers Prabhsimran Singh and explosive Priyansh Arya are in red-hot form, while captain Shreyas Iyer has been a pillar in the middle order with multiple half-centuries. The bowling unit, led by Arshdeep Singh and Yuzvendra Chahal, has been clinical.
Delhi Capitals, meanwhile, sit in 6th place with 6 points (3 wins, 3 losses, NRR -0.130). After starting with back-to-back wins, they’ve lost three of their last four games – most recently a 47-run defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad. Their batting has been inconsistent, with the top order struggling for momentum despite flashes of brilliance from KL Rahul and Sameer Rizvi. The bowling attack remains DC’s biggest strength (especially in home conditions), but they miss Mitchell Starc, who is yet to join the squad. Home advantage at Arun Jaitley could be their trump card.
Head-to-Head Record
- Total meetings: 35
- DC wins: 17
- PBKS wins: 17
- Ties/No Result: 1
It’s perfectly balanced overall, and the two sides have split their last four encounters 2-2 since 2023. At this venue, each team has won six times – setting the stage for another classic.
Pitch Report & Weather Conditions
The Arun Jaitley Stadium (Pitch No. 6) is a batter’s paradise with short boundaries and a lightning-fast outfield. Expect a high-scoring contest – par score around 200+. While the surface can slow down later and assist spinners like Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Chahal, early pace movement is possible under lights (or in the afternoon heat).
Weather: Clear and hot in Delhi – temperatures hovering around 35-40°C with haze and zero chance of rain. Perfect conditions for a full 20-over thriller.
Probable Playing XI
Delhi Capitals (likely):
Pathum Nissanka, KL Rahul (wk), Nitish Rana, Sameer Rizvi, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Ashutosh Sharma, Axar Patel (c), Kuldeep Yadav, Lungi Ngidi, Mukesh Kumar / T Natarajan (Impact: Ashutosh Sharma or similar).
Note: Mitchell Starc still unavailable; Rehan Ahmed has joined the squad.
Punjab Kings (likely):
Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Priyansh Arya, Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer (c), Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh / Nehal Wadhera, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, Vijaykumar Vyshak (Impact: Nehal Wadhera).
Cooper Connolly is available after fitness clearance.
Players to Watch Out For
PBKS Stars:
- Priyansh Arya & Prabhsimran Singh – The explosive opening duo lighting up the powerplay.
- Shreyas Iyer – In sublime form; dominates DC spinners.
- Arshdeep Singh – Death-over specialist with 6 wickets already.
DC Stars:
- KL Rahul – Finding form at the top; crucial anchor role.
- Axar Patel (c) – All-round impact and spin control at home.
- Kuldeep Yadav & Tristan Stubbs – Game-changers with ball and bat respectively.
- Lungi Ngidi – Leading DC’s bowling charts with 7 wickets.
Key Battles to Look Forward To
- DC’s spin duo (Axar + Kuldeep) vs PBKS middle order (Iyer, Stoinis, Shashank).
- PBKS powerplay openers vs DC’s pace attack (Mukesh Kumar & Ngidi).
- Arshdeep Singh vs DC’s finishers (Stubbs & Miller).
Match Prediction
Punjab Kings enter as overwhelming favourites given their flawless campaign, depth, and momentum. However, DC at home with their spin-heavy attack and short boundaries can pull off an upset – especially if their top order finally clicks.
Predicted Winner: Punjab Kings (but expect a high-scoring, edge-of-the-seat contest!).
Don’t miss the action! Tune in to JioHotstar for the official preview highlights and live coverage starting at 3:30 PM IST. Who are you backing – DC’s home resilience or PBKS’ unbeaten juggernaut? Drop your predictions in the comments!
Stay tuned for post-match analysis right here.
