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The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has delivered a rollercoaster of emotions—packed with passion, drama, and edge-of-the-seat thrill. As the league stage nears its conclusion, the battle for a playoff spot has reached a fever pitch. With three teams having already sealed their place in the top four, all eyes are now on the intense scramble for the final spot. In the spotlight are two powerhouse franchises, Delhi Capitals (DC) and Mumbai Indians (MI), both boasting star-studded lineups and a legacy of big-match performances. As the pressure mounts, these two giants are set to clash in what could be a do-or-die showdown for that coveted last playoff berth.
IPL 2025 qualification scenario: Will it be DC or MI in the top 4?
1. Delhi Capitals
After a dream start to the season with four consecutive wins, Delhi now find themselves in a bit of a slump. Currently placed fifth on the points table, they’ve managed to win only one of their last five games. Their top order, once firing on all cylinders, has struggled for consistency, while the bowling unit has lacked sharpness and penetration in crucial moments. The dip in form has come at the worst possible time, putting their playoff hopes under serious pressure.
DC’s qualification scenario is fairly straightforward: win their remaining two matches, and a playoff spot is secured. These crucial games come against two formidable opponents, Mumbai and Punjab Kings (PBKS). Victories in both will take DC to 17 points, a total that would mathematically eliminate MI, who can then reach a maximum of only 16.
However, if DC lose to MI, their playoff hopes would likely be over, as that result would give MI the edge in both points and momentum. There’s also a slim alternate route, DC can still sneak into the top four with just one win, but only if MI lose both their remaining games. In that case, DC would finish on 15 points, while MI would remain at 14, opening the door for DC based on standings and net run rate. However, it’s a risky path, leaving little room for error.
- Wins against MI and PBKS will take DC to 17 points, ensuring a playoff spot.
- If DC lose to MI, their chances of qualification are potentially over. However DC can still qualify with one win if MI lose both of their games. In that scenario, DC would end on 15 points and MI on 14.
Also READ: Indian Premier League 2025 – Points Table
2. Mumbai Indians
Under the leadership of Hardik Pandya, Mumbai have their destiny in their own hands. Positioned fourth on the table with 14 points from 12 games, MI can not only seal a playoff berth with a win against DC but also push for a top-two finish if they win both of their remaining games.
A win over DC would take them to 16 points and guarantee qualification, while beating Punjab PBKS in the final league match could boost their tally to 18, putting them in race for a top-two spot, depending on net run rate and other results. However, a loss against DC would complicate their journey, leaving them in a must-win situation against PBKS and at the mercy of other match outcomes. If MI lose both games, they could finish outside the top four altogether, especially if DC or another contender leapfrogs them. With everything to play for, MI must bring their A-game to avoid last-minute heartbreak.
- A win against DC guarantees playoff qualification.
- Winning both remaining games will take MI to 18 points and possibly a top-two finish.
- A loss to DC puts them under pressure to win their final match and rely on other results.
- Losing both matches knock MI out of the playoffs.
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