The race for the final playoff spot intensifies as three teams fight for one remaining place
New Delhi, May 19 — The playoff picture in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is nearly complete following Sunday’s double-header results. With convincing wins, Gujarat Titans and Punjab Kings have officially qualified for the playoffs, while Royal Challengers Bangalore also secured their place in the final four. Reigning champions Kolkata Knight Riders, however, bowed out of the race after their rain-affected game in Bengaluru was called off.
Now, only one playoff spot remains open — with Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, and Lucknow Super Giants locked in a fierce battle to claim it.
Gujarat Titans (Qualified)
Remaining matches: vs LSG, vs CSK
Currently topping the points table, Gujarat are favorites to finish in the top two. If they win both remaining matches — both at home, where they have a 4-1 record this season — their position will be secured. Even with one loss, they could still make the top two if either Punjab or Bangalore drop points.
Punjab Kings (Qualified)
Remaining matches: vs Delhi, vs Mumbai
Punjab Kings have made the playoffs for the first time since 2014, igniting hope among fans. With two wins, they can aim for a top-two finish, but that depends on Gujarat or Bangalore losing at least one game. Currently, RCB hold a slight edge in Net Run Rate (+0.482) over Punjab (+0.389).
Royal Challengers Bangalore (Qualified)
Remaining matches: vs Hyderabad, vs LSG
RCB have also punched their ticket to the playoffs. Their remaining games are against Hyderabad and Lucknow — both of whom are struggling with form. Winning both matches will put RCB in a strong position to finish in the top two, but one loss could open the door for Gujarat and Punjab to move ahead.
Mumbai Indians
Remaining matches: vs Delhi, vs Punjab
Mumbai arguably have the clearest path to playoff qualification. Two wins guarantee them a spot in the top four. Even one win against Delhi, coupled with Lucknow’s defeat, could secure their progression. However, one loss complicates the scenario significantly. If they lose to Delhi but beat Punjab, both opponents could leapfrog them depending on other results.
Mumbai also have a slim chance at a top-two finish if they reach 18 points and both Punjab and Bangalore remain at 17.
Delhi Capitals
Remaining matches: vs Mumbai, vs Punjab
Delhi’s campaign has lost momentum, with five losses in their last eight matches. A defeat to Mumbai on Wednesday would eliminate them. Their only chance is to win both games, reach 17 points, and hope other results fall in their favor.
Lucknow Super Giants
Remaining matches: vs Hyderabad, vs RCB
Lucknow’s playoff hopes are hanging by a thread after a string of losses. To stay alive, they must win all three remaining games and hope both Mumbai and Delhi stay below the 16-point mark. However, their Net Run Rate (-0.469) is the worst among the contenders, which could hurt them even if points are tied.
With three teams already through to the playoffs, the final week of IPL 2025 promises high-stakes drama as MI, DC, and LSG vie for the last available slot. The coming matches will shape the destiny of several franchises — and fans can expect a thrilling conclusion to the league stage.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
