The IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is a crucial match, as the winner secures a direct spot in the IPL final.
But with rain sometimes disrupting big games, many fans are wondering: What if the match is washed out and no result is possible?
IPL Rules for Washed-Out Playoff Matches
- No Reserve Day: There is no reserve day for Qualifier 1 in IPL 2025. The match can be extended by up to two hours to try and get a result, but if play is still not possible, the match is considered abandoned.
- League Table Advantage: If the match is washed out and cannot be completed, the team that finished higher in the league stage automatically qualifies for the final.
- Current Scenario: PBKS finished first in the points table, while RCB finished second. So, if rain washes out Qualifier 1, Punjab Kings will go straight to the IPL 2025 final.
- What Happens to RCB: Royal Challengers Bangalore will still have a chance to reach the final. They will play in Qualifier 2 against the winner of the Eliminator match (between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans). The winner of Qualifier 2 will then face Punjab Kings in the final.
Why This Rule Exists
This rule rewards teams for consistent performance during the league stage. It ensures that the team finishing higher in the standings is not unfairly penalized if weather interrupts a crucial playoff match.
Weather Update for Mullanpur
The good news for fans is that there is little to no chance of rain in Mullanpur for the Qualifier 1 match, so a full game is expected.