IPL 2025 playoff scenario: PBKS, MI, RCB, and GT battle for Qualifier 1 spot after GT vs CSK match

Gujarat Titans' loss to Chennai Super Kings on Sunday has completely opened the battle for a spot in the top 2 spots in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 points table. While the four teams - Gujarat Titans (GT), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Mumbai Indians (MI), and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB))—have achieved their spots in the Playoffs, only two of them can earn the privilege of playing in Qualifier 1, where they have the extra chance to qualify for the final.

GT is currently at the top of the points table with 18 points, having played all their league matches. On the table, they are stalking with caution, with the loss against CSK the last memory; all they have to hope for are other results in their favor. PBKS and MI will be playing next, with RCB playing against Lucknow Super Giants on Tuesday, and the results of these two games will determine who takes the two top spots.

Qualifier 1 is hugely beneficial, as the winner progresses directly to the final and the losing team gets a second chance in Qualifier 2, whereas the third and fourth place teams get to play the Eliminator - that is, a knockout match that will see off the loser.

What each team needs to get a top-two finish:

Punjab Kings (17 points): A win against MI will push PBKS to 19 points and ensure a top-two finish. A loss means they go into the Eliminator.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (17 points): RCB must beat LSG to have a chance for a top-two finish. If they lose against LSG, their chances are slim at best, depending on net run rate.

Also Read: IPL 2025, Match 67: Gujarat Titans vs Chennai Super Kings Full Match Highlights

Mumbai Indians (16 points): A win over PBKS gives MI 18 points—which may get them a top-two finish depending on the RCB result.

Gujarat Titans (18 points): GT needs PBKS and RCB to lose assuredly. If they do, GT finishes in the top two along with MI.

The league stage is nearing the end, and the battle for the top two has never been hotter or more discouraging, as each run scored is critical. The next two games determine the road to the IPL 2025 final.