With three teams — Gujarat Titans, Punjab Kings, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru — already qualified for the IPL 2025 playoffs, the final spot is being contested by Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, and Lucknow Super Giants. Mumbai are in pole position and can qualify directly with two wins. Delhi must win both their remaining games or risk elimination. Lucknow need to win all three remaining matches and hope for favorable results from other games. Net run rate could be a deciding factor if teams finish level on points. The DC vs MI clash on May 21 is likely to be crucial.
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With two games remaining, Mumbai Indians control their fate. Wins in both fixtures will take them to 18 points and guarantee a playoff spot.
Delhi's crushing 10-wicket defeat to Gujarat Titans hasn’t eliminated them yet, but they must now win both upcoming games to stay alive.
If Mumbai beat Delhi, they’re nearly assured of qualification, even with a potential loss in the final game against Punjab Kings.
If Delhi beat Mumbai but lose to Punjab, they’ll need both Mumbai and Lucknow to drop points to qualify with 15 points.
Lucknow need a perfect finish—beating SRH, Gujarat, and RCB—while also hoping other results fall their way to reach 16 points.
If teams finish tied on 16 points, net run rate will be decisive. Mumbai’s superior NRR could leave LSG needing dominant wins.
Gujarat, Punjab, and Bengaluru became the first three teams to qualify, showcasing consistent dominance by Game 60 of the season.
This midweek clash is shaping up to be a virtual knockout. The loser could find themselves out of playoff contention.
Even with three wins, Lucknow needs Delhi to beat Mumbai but lose to Punjab, and for MI to lose both games, to sneak in.
With major teams like CSK, KKR, and SRH out, the 2025 playoff race is wide open, showcasing one of the most dramatic finishes in IPL history.
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