IPL 2025: Key Strategies for GT, RCB, PBKS & MI to Secure a Spot in the Final

The Playoff Race is Set, But the Battle for the Top Two Heats Up!

With just seven matches to go in the IPL 2025 league stage, the Playoff picture is finally clear. After 63 games, Gujarat Titans (GT), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Punjab Kings (PBKS), and Mumbai Indians (MI) have clinched the top four spots. But while the qualifiers are locked in, the real drama now lies in who grabs the crucial top-two positions.

Why the Top Two Spots Matter
Here’s the deal: finishing in the top two doesn’t just mean bragging rights. It means playing in Qualifier 1, where the winner goes straight to the final, and the loser gets another shot in Qualifier 2. In contrast, teams ranked third and fourth face off in an Eliminator — lose once, and you're out. It’s do-or-die for them, while the top two enjoy a safety net.

The Four Contenders and Their Road Ahead

Gujarat Titans (GT)
Points: 18 | Matches Played: 12 | Position: 1st
GT have been the team to beat. Their crushing 10-wicket win over DC sealed their Playoff berth first. If they win both of their remaining matches, they’ll top the table — no questions asked. Having lifted the trophy in 2022, they’re now eying another title with minimum fuss.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
Points: 17 | Matches Played: 12 | Position: 2nd
RCB are on fire with eight wins and are just a point behind GT. They need to win both remaining games to stay in the race for a top-two finish. But here’s the twist — Net Run Rate (NRR) could decide their fate, especially with PBKS breathing down their neck.

Punjab Kings (PBKS)
Points: 17 | Matches Played: 12 | Position: 3rd
PBKS are tied with RCB on points but trail in NRR. A couple of strong wins — particularly a big one over RCB — and they could leap into the top two. It's not just about winning anymore, it's about winning big.

Mumbai Indians (MI)
Points: 16 | Matches Played: 13 | Position: 4th
MI thrashed DC by 59 runs to claim the final Playoff spot. But with only one match left, their chances of reaching the top two are slim. Even if they win, they’ll need other results to fall perfectly in place.

What’s Next?
The final week of league matches kicks off soon, and every ball could change the playoff dynamics. With all eyes on the top-two battle, expect intense cricket, calculated risks, and possibly, a few surprises.