IPL 2025 playoff race explained News

Delhi Capitals’ IPL 2025 playoff hopes are hanging by a thread after a heavy defeat to Gujarat Titans. To stay in contention, DC must win their remaining two matches against Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings, ideally by large margins to boost their Net Run Rate. However, qualification also depends on favorable results from other teams. With their playoff odds now below 20%, DC face a must-win clash against MI on May 21. The final game vs PBKS could decide their fate. While mathematically possible, Delhi’s path to the top four is extremely narrow and reliant on both performance and luck.

Gujarat Titans’ dominant win over Delhi Capitals confirmed their place in the IPL 2025 playoffs and simplified the qualification scenario. With GT, RCB, and PBKS securing spots, only one playoff berth remains. RCB continued their consistent run, while PBKS ended an 11-year playoff drought. Delhi Capitals now face an uphill task, needing two wins and favourable results. Mumbai Indians, with the best net run rate, are in a strong position to grab the final spot. LSG's chances are slim due to poor NRR. The MI vs DC clash on May 21 could be the virtual knockout for the last playoff place.  

Gujarat Titans (GT) edged past Mumbai Indians (MI) in a rain-affected IPL 2025 thriller, winning by 3 wickets and moving to the top of the points table with 16 points. Though not officially qualified for the playoffs, GT need just one more win from their remaining three matches (DC, LSG, CSK) to seal a spot. A top-two finish is likely if they win two, depending on other results. MI, now at 14 points, must win both remaining games to stay in contention. The playoff race remains tight, with seven teams still fighting for spots and complex qualification scenarios unfolding.

Delhi Capitals remain in the IPL 2025 playoff race with 13 points from 11 games. To qualify comfortably, they must win all three remaining matches against PBKS, GT, and MI, which would take them to 19 points. Even two wins (17 points) could be enough, but their Net Run Rate (currently +0.362) will play a crucial role in case of a tie. A single win leaves their fate to other results, while losing all games eliminates them. Axar Patel’s leadership, smart tactics, and big individual performances will be vital as every match ahead is a virtual knockout for Delhi.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have been officially eliminated from the IPL 2025 playoffs after suffering their eighth loss in 10 matches, falling to Punjab Kings by four wickets. With only four games remaining, CSK can reach a maximum of 12 points—insufficient to break into the top four due to stronger positions of teams like PBKS, RCB, and others already at or above that mark. Currently placed last on the points table, CSK’s playoff hopes are mathematically over. The focus now shifts to salvaging pride in the remaining fixtures and speculations surrounding MS Dhoni’s potential final IPL season.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru climbed to the top of the IPL 2025 Points Table after defeating Delhi Capitals, taking their tally to 14 points from 10 matches. Gujarat Titans, Mumbai Indians, and Delhi Capitals closely follow with 12 points each. Punjab Kings remain in the race with 11 points, while Lucknow Super Giants must win all remaining games to stay alive. Kolkata Knight Riders, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Rajasthan Royals, and Chennai Super Kings face uphill battles, with RR and CSK almost out of playoff contention. As the league stage nears its end, every match is crucial in the thrilling IPL 2025 playoff race.

Kolkata Knight Riders' (KKR) IPL 2025 playoff hopes took a hit after a 39-run loss to Gujarat Titans. Chasing 199, KKR managed only 159/8 despite Ajinkya Rahane’s 50 and a late cameo from Angkrish Raghuvanshi. GT’s win was powered by Shubman Gill’s 90 and disciplined bowling from Rashid Khan and Prasidh Krishna. With just three wins in eight games, KKR must now win at least five of their remaining six matches to stay in playoff contention. Their positive net run rate offers some cushion, but any further losses or big defeats could severely damage their chances.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are struggling in IPL 2025, sitting 9th on the points table with just two wins in seven matches and a poor Net Run Rate of -1.217. Their playoff hopes remain alive but require a near-perfect run, needing at least five wins from their remaining seven games. Winning six would almost guarantee qualification, while winning all seven could even secure a top-two finish. Any more than three losses will end their chances. SRH faces tough upcoming fixtures, and their star players must step up. Owner Kavya Maran remains a passionate presence, symbolizing fans’ hope for a late comeback.