PBKS enter this contest on the back of 4 successive defeats. The Shreyas Iyer-led side are placed in 4th place in the table after 11 games. A win will further strengthen their playoff credentials. A win will also help them get to 3rd.
MI come into this contest having already been eliminated. They are 9th after 11 games with three wins and 8 defeats. The venue is hosting its 2nd game of the season. It is known for its scenic beauty and electric atmosphere. PBKS lost to Delhi Capitals in the previous game held here a couple of days ago.
For PBKS, the likes ofShreyas Iyer, Priyanshu Arya, Arshdeep Singh, and Yuzvendra Chahal hold the key, while MI rely on stars likeSuryakumar Yadav, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah.
MI will depend on their pace battery, while PBKS will lean on their batting firepower and home conditions.
What is the H2H Record Between PBKS and MI?
In terms of the H2H record between PBKS and MI, the win-loss record reads 18-17 in PBKS’ favour. In the only meeting here, PBKS beat MI back in 2013.
Probable XI of Both Teams
PBKS Probable XI: Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer (c), Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, Suryansh Shedge, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett/Lockie Ferguson, Yash Thakur, Arshdeep Singh. Impact Player: Yuzvendra Chahal.
MI Probable XI: Ryan Rickelton (wk), Rohit Sharma, Naman Dhir, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Will Jacks, Raj Angad Bawa, Corbin Bosch, Deepak Chahar, AM Ghazanfar, Jasprit Bumrah. Impact Player: Ashwani Kumar/Shardul Thakur.
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium: Venue Insights
The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala is one of India’s most picturesque cricket venues, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas with the snow-capped Dhauladhar range providing a stunning backdrop. Known for its passionate crowds and electric atmosphere during night matches, the ground offers excellent facilities and a lively playing surface. With a capacity of around 23,000, it delivers memorable IPL contests. PBKS have enjoyed decent returns here as the home side. The venue has witnessed high-scoring thrillers and dramatic chases, making it a favourite for players and fans alike. PBKS have played 15 matches at this venue. They own a 6-9 win-loss record.
What is the Pitch Like at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium?
The HPCA Stadium pitch is typically a lively and batting-friendly surface that offers good bounce and carry early on, allowing batters to play their shots with confidence. This is the 1st clash this season here. One can expect the ball coming nicely onto the bat. The high altitude aids the ball in traveling further. While pacers get early movement and benefit from cutters and bouncers, spinners get some grip in the middle overs.
Power-hitting is highly rewarding due to the boundaries and conditions. Teams often target totals around 180-200+. Dew can play a role in the second innings, making chasing preferable for the side winning the toss. Overall, this is a venue where aggressive batting, strike rotation, and smart death bowling prove crucial.
Key Stats & Records at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium
As per Cricbuzz, the average first innings score at the venue since IPL 2023 is 210-plus. In the previous match here this season, PBKS scored 210/5 before DC managed 216/7.
RCB’s 241/7 versus PBKS in IPL 2024 is the highest team total here. PBKS’ 236/5 versus LSG in IPL 2025 is the next best score.
PBKS’ 116 all out is the lowest score here. They attained the same in 2011 against the Deccan Chargers.
With 334 runs, former PBKS ace Shaun Marsh leads the scoring charts. Piyush Chawla bagged 13 wickets here and leads the show among bowlers.
PBKS vs MI: Weather Forecast
Notably, it rained on the eve of the match here in Dharamsala, and a couple of showers are likely in the afternoon on Thursday. However, no interruptions are expected during the game. One can expect a pleasant Dharamsala evening in May. Daytime temperatures may hover around 25-30°C, cooling further by the evening. Humidity levels will be low to moderate. There is no rain threat, ensuring a full 20-over contest. Dew factor is likely to appear later in the evening, potentially assisting the chasing team significantly.
PBKS vs MI: Pitch Advantage for Which Side?
This surface heavily favours teams with strong top-order batters, explosive middle-order finishers, and quality death bowlers. PBKS will look to exploit their home knowledge and batting firepower. MI, known for their big-hitters and world-class bowling attack led by Bumrah, will be dangerous both while setting and chasing targets.
The team that starts strongly in the powerplay, capitalises on the short boundaries, and manages the dew factor effectively will hold the upper hand. While the pitch offers plenty for batters, bowling intelligence and execution under lights will prove decisive in this high-scoring battle.
FAQs – Pitch Report for Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium
What is the par score at Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium?
For the 2026 season, a par score at this venue is around 190-205, though totals of 210+ are very much chaseable, especially with dew assistance.
Who is the captain of PBKS and MI?
Shreyas Iyer leads the PBKS side, bringing calm leadership and solid batting skills. Suryaykumar Yadav captains MI in Hardik Pandya’s absence.
Is the pitch good for pacers or spinners?
It offers early assistance and bounce to pacers, but generally favours batters throughout. Spinners must rely on variations and clever changes of pace rather than sharp turns. Disciplined bowling combined with fearless batting will define success. This match promises a high-scoring, entertaining contest where big hitting and smart death bowling under lights will separate the two sides.
