The IPL 2025 playoffs spots have been finalised, but there is still a lot to play for among the top four teams. Gujarat Titans (GT), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), and Mumbai Indians (MI) have made it to the playoffs. Interestingly, all these teams still have the opportunity to finish in the top two positions, which would guarantee them a spot in Qualifier 1, providing a direct path to the final.
How can MI, RCB, PBKS, and GT clinch a top 2 spots?
Gujarat Titans (GT)
Sitting at the top of the points table with 18 points, GT holds the key to their own fate. If they win their final match against Chennai Super Kings, they will reach 20 points, guaranteeing them a place in Qualifier 1. If they lose, their progression will depend on the results of the PBKS and RCB games. GT will need one of those teams to lose in their final game to secure a top-two finish.
Punjab Kings (PBKS)
With 17 points, PBKS must win their last match to reach 19 points. Following that, they will depend on either GT or RCB losing their final game. If PBKS win and one of the other teams falters, they will secure a top-two finish. In case of a loss, they will remain on 17 points and will need both RCB and MI to lose. If PBKS and RCB are level on points, PBKS will progress thanks to a superior run rate, unless RCB achieve a big win.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
RCB face a situation similar to PBKS. They must win their final game and hope that either GT or PBKS lose. If RCB lose, they will need PBKS and MI to suffer a defeat as well. However, RCB’s lower net run rate compared to PBKS means that even if MI and PBKS lose, RCB’s qualification is not guaranteed. A win is vital for RCB to stand a chance of finishing in the top two.
Mumbai Indians (MI)
MI have the slimmest chance of qualifying for the top two. With 16 points, they can maximum touch the 18-point mark. If MI win their last game and both PBKS and RCB lose, MI will make it through. If either PBKS or RCB lose, along with GT, and MI win, they will tie with GT on 18 points. Given that MI have a superior net run rate compared to GT, they will progress to Qualifier 1.