As the IPL 2025 league stage nears its climax, the battle for the top four playoff spots is heating up. While Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals have already bowed out of the competition, eight teams are still mathematically in contention. Among them, Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Punjab Kings, and Gujarat Titans currently lead the charge towards the playoffs. Here’s a detailed analysis of the top contenders and those still hanging on.
🟢 Mumbai Indians: Stunning Comeback to Top the Table
Mumbai Indians were languishing at the bottom after their first five games with just 2 points. But a stunning turnaround saw them win six matches in a row. Now, with 14 points from 11 games and a healthy Net Run Rate (NRR) of +1.274, they sit at the top of the table.
Remaining matches: Gujarat Titans (May 6), Punjab Kings (May 11), Delhi Capitals (May 15)
Analysis: The remaining fixtures are tough, but with the likes of Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Bumrah, and Hardik Pandya all hitting form, Mumbai looks set to clinch a playoff spot.
🔵 Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Riding High but Cautious at Home
RCB has collected 14 points from 10 matches with an NRR of +0.521. While they’ve been consistent, their record at home is a slight concern, having lost three games there.
Remaining matches: Chennai (May 3), Lucknow (May 9), Hyderabad (May 13), Kolkata (May 17)
Analysis: Winning just two of their remaining four games could be enough for playoff qualification. With most opponents being lower-ranked, RCB’s chances look strong.
🔴 Punjab Kings: Consistency Will Be Key
Punjab has 13 points from 10 matches and an NRR of +0.199. However, they haven’t yet won three consecutive games this season.
Remaining matches: Lucknow (May 4), Delhi (May 8), Mumbai (May 11), Rajasthan (May 16)
Analysis: They’ll need at least two more wins to stay in contention. If they can finally string together consistent performances, a top-four finish is within reach.
🟡 Gujarat Titans: Fewer Matches, More Chances
Gujarat has played only 9 matches so far but has already gathered 12 points with a +0.748 NRR. They have five matches left—more than any other team.
Remaining matches: Hyderabad (May 2), Mumbai (May 6), Delhi (May 11), Lucknow (May 14), Chennai (May 18)
Analysis: Winning just 3 of these 5 games could be enough to qualify. Though they’ve stumbled recently, Gujarat still holds one of the best chances to make it through.
⚪ Who’s Falling Behind?
Delhi Capitals: 12 points from 10 games. Still in with a shot, but must win 3 or 4 of their remaining matches.
Lucknow Super Giants: 10 points from 10 games. A tougher road ahead with strong teams left to face.
Kolkata Knight Riders: Must win all four of their remaining matches, which includes big clashes against Rajasthan and Bengaluru.
Chennai Super Kings & Rajasthan Royals: Already out of the playoff race.
🔍 Why These 4 Teams Are Ahead in the Playoff Race
Consistent performance
Key players in form
Favorable remaining fixtures
Higher net run rate
Squad depth and balance