As the IPL 2025 league stage draws to a close, the competition for the last playoff spot is heating up between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Delhi Capitals (DC).
With Gujarat Titans (GT), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), and Punjab Kings (PBKS) already through to the playoffs, all eyes are now on which team will claim the fourth and final place.
Mumbai Indians: Advantage, But No Room for Error
MI currently sit in fourth place with 14 points from 12 games and boast a healthy Net Run Rate (NRR) of +1.156.
They have two crucial matches left—one against PBKS and a direct face-off with DC. If MI win both, they’ll finish with 18 points and easily secure their playoff spot, possibly even a top-two finish.
However, a loss in either game, especially against DC, could make things tricky. In that case, MI would have to rely on their strong NRR and hope other results go their way.
Delhi Capitals: Must-Win Situation
DC are just behind in fifth place with 13 points from 12 matches and an NRR of +0.260. Their next two games, against PBKS and MI, are must-wins.
Victories in both will take DC to 17 points and almost guarantee a playoff berth. If they lose even one, their chances will depend on other teams’ performances and the NRR calculations.
The match against MI is particularly important, as a win would not only improve DC’s chances but also dent MI’s hopes.
Upcoming Matches to Decide Fate
- May 21: DC vs PBKS
- May 22: MI vs DC
These two fixtures will be crucial in determining which team advances to the playoffs.
Both MI and DC need to focus on winning and also on boosting their NRR, as it could be the tie-breaker if points are level.
The next few days promise high-stakes cricket and plenty of drama as the race for the playoffs reaches its climax.
