By Dive into the IPL 2025 playoff race with a full analysis of all 10 teams. RCB leads the charge, while MI remains in strong contention for a top-four finish.
The race for the IPL 2025 playoffs is heating up as the tournament enters its crucial business end. With just a few league-stage matches remaining, the battle for the Top 4 spots is as intense as ever. The recent washout between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Delhi Capitals eliminated SRH from playoff contention, making them the third team after the Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings.
As it stands, seven teams still have a realistic shot at making the playoffs, led by a dominant Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Let’s take a detailed look at the playoff scenarios for all the contenders.
🟥 Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) – The Front-Runners
RCB are currently the favourites to qualify, sitting comfortably at the top with 16 points from 11 matches. The Rajat Patidar-led side has been consistent throughout the season and needs just one more win to virtually confirm their playoff berth. If they secure two more wins, they are almost guaranteed a Top 2 finish, giving them a valuable extra shot at the final.
Qualification Scenario:
- 1 win from remaining 3 matches likely ensures Top 4
- 2 wins could secure Top 2 spot
🟥 Punjab Kings (PBKS) – Gaining Momentum
A crucial win against Lucknow Super Giants gave PBKS a major boost in the playoff race. Currently on 12 points, they need 2 wins from their remaining 3 matches to secure qualification. Even if they win only one more game, they could still sneak in, but their fate would then depend on Net Run Rate (NRR) and other match outcomes.
Qualification Scenario:
- 2 wins = Guaranteed qualification
- 1 win = Possible qualification, depends on NRR and results
🟦 Mumbai Indians (MI) – On a Hot Streak
Hardik Pandya’s Mumbai Indians have roared back into form with 6 consecutive wins. With 14 points from 11 games, they are firmly in the playoff race. Winning 2 of their last 3 matches will secure a Top 4 finish and possibly a Top 2 spot depending on other results.
Qualification Scenario:
- 2 wins from 3 matches = Secure Top 4
- 3 wins = Potential Top 2
🟨 Gujarat Titans (GT) – Quiet But Dangerous
GT have quietly collected 14 points from just 10 matches, giving them a slight edge with 4 games in hand. They need just 2 more wins to qualify, and a strong finish could also set them up for a Top 2 spot. They remain one of the most balanced teams in the tournament.
Qualification Scenario:
- 2 wins = Confirmed Top 4
- 3+ wins = Likely Top 2
🟦 Delhi Capitals (DC) – Rain Plays Spoilsport
The rain-affected match against SRH cost DC a golden opportunity to strengthen their playoff push. With 12 points and only 3 matches remaining, they now need to win at least 2 matches to stay in contention. Their campaign hinges on strong performances and favorable NRR.
Qualification Scenario:
- 2 wins = Possible qualification
- 3 wins = Strong playoff chance
🟣 Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – Must Win All
KKR’s scenario is the most straightforward: win all 3 remaining games. That would take them to 17 points, but even then, their qualification would depend on NRR and other match outcomes. One loss will almost certainly end their hopes.
Qualification Scenario:
- Must win all 3 matches
- Also depend on NRR and rivals’ results
🟩 Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) – Toughest Road Ahead
LSG is in a tight spot. Even if they win all three remaining matches and reach 16 points, their qualification will depend entirely on other teams’ results.
