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As the IPL 2025 season nears its climax on May 19, 2025, the playoff picture is almost complete. Gujarat Titans, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), and Punjab Kings have secured their spots in the top four, leaving one final slot up for grabs.
The race for the fourth position is heating up, with Mumbai Indians (MI), Delhi Capitals (DC), and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) battling it out for that one position.
Current Standings
- Mumbai Indians: 14 points from 12 games (NRR: 1.156)
- Delhi Capitals: 13 points from 12 games
- Lucknow Super Giants: 10 points from 11 games
Upcoming Fixtures
The outcome of the following matches will determine who claims the final playoff spot:
- MI vs. DC (May 21, 2025)
- MI vs. PBKS
- DC vs. PBKS
- LSG vs. SRH (May 19, 2025), GT, and RCB
Qualification Scenarios
Mumbai Indians
MI are in pole position with 14 points. Winning both of their remaining matches against DC and PBKS will guarantee qualification with 18 points.
Even a single win could suffice, provided other results, particularly DC’s and LSG’s, go their way, and their strong net run rate (1.156) holds up.
Delhi Capitals
DC, with 13 points, need to win both remaining games against MI and PBKS to reach 17 points. This would put them in contention, but their qualification could hinge on net run rate and other results, especially after their recent 10-wicket loss to the Gujarat Titans.
Lucknow Super Giants
LSG face an uphill battle with only 10 points from 11 games. They must win all three of their remaining matches against SRH, GT, and RCB to reach 16 points. Even then, their qualification depends on favourable results elsewhere and a significant improvement in their net run rate.
Who Will Make It?
Mumbai Indians are currently favoured to clinch the final playoff spot, thanks to their higher points tally and strong net run rate.
The upcoming MI vs. DC clash on May 21 is being dubbed a virtual knockout, as the winner will gain a significant advantage. However, LSG’s three remaining games give them a slim chance to stage a dramatic comeback, provided they can upset strong teams like GT and RCB.