 "RCB can still finish in top two in IPL 2025 but the scenarios are quite difficult. Image: Reuters")
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 playoffs race is over, but the race for the top two finishes is still on. Four teams, including Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Gujarat Titans (GT) and Mumbai Indians (MI) have already qualified for IPL 2025 playoffs.
But none of the teams have sealed the top two posts so far. RCB had a good chance to strengthen their chances of a top two finish on Friday but they suffered a 42-run defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) . PBKS also have a chance and they take on Delhi Capitals (DC) on Saturday.
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We take a look at what these teams need to finish in the top two spots in IPL 2025. Let’s start with RCB.
How RCB can finish in top two
RCB are on 17 points after losing to SRH but their net run rate (NRR) has taken a big dent as they dropped to the third place, behind GT and PBKS. RCB currently have an NRR of +0.255.
Rajat Patidar’s RCB must now beat Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Tuesday in their final league match to stay in contention for a top-two finish. A loss would rule them out of the race for the top two.
Even a win may not guarantee a top-two spot. If GT beat Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and finish on 20 points, and PBKS win both their remaining games to reach 21, RCB will miss out even with a win.
However, if GT lose to CSK on Sunday, a win over LSG will be enough for RCB to finish in the top two. If GT win but PBKS lose one of their last two games, RCB will need to beat LSG by a sufficient margin to edge past PBKS on net run rate.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsWhat Punjab Kings, who take on DC today, need to finish in the top two?
PBKS have 17 points currently and a net run rate: +0.389. They are second in the IPL 2025 points table and have remaining matches against DC and MI.
After RCB’s defeat, PBKS are now best placed to finish in the top two. If PBKS win both their remaining games, they will finish top of the table with 21 points.
If they win only one of their last two games and move to 19 points, even that could be enough for a top-two finish if either GT or RCB lose their last league games.
If PBKS lose both their remaining games, they won’t finish in the top two because GT are already ahead of them and MI will also overtake them.