The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 playoff picture is finally becoming clear. Gujarat Titans (GT), Punjab Kings (PBKS), and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have confirmed their playoff spots following Delhi Capitals’ (DC) heavy defeat.
On Sunday, May 18, DC lost to GT by 10 wickets in a one-sided match played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. This result helped GT not only reach the playoffs but also become the first team to confirm their spot in the top four.
GT Storms Into Playoffs
Gujarat Titans put up a brilliant all-round performance. Chasing 200 runs, GT openers Sai Sudarshan and Shubman Gill gave the fans a show to remember. Sudarshan scored a spectacular unbeaten century (108*), while Gill supported him with a solid 93*. GT finished the match in just 19th overs without losing a wicket.
With a huge win, GT climbed to the top of the points table with 18 points from 12 matches. Their net run rate also improved to +0.795, making it nearly impossible for other teams to catch up.
RCB Secures Their Spot Too
Royal Challengers Bengaluru joined GT in the playoffs after their game against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) was washed out due to rain. Both teams got one point each. That one point took RCB to 17 points from 12 matches. With two games remaining, they have a strong chance of finishing in the top two if they win both. This is a huge moment for RCB fans, as the team looks very balanced this year, and is chasing their first IPL titles.
Also read: IPL 2025: Can Delhi Capitals Qualify for Playoffs After Losing Against Gujarat Titans?
PBKS Make History
The biggest celebration came from the Punjab King’s camp. After years of heartbreak, PBKS finally made it to the playoffs for the first time since 2014. Their hard-fought 10 run win over Rajasthan Royals was enough to push them to third place in the table with 17 points and a strong net run rate of +0.389.
Led by skipper Shreyas Iyer, PBKS have looked strong this season, with contributions from both young Indian players and experienced overseas stars. Their fans have waited 11 long years for this moment.
Delhi Capitals Chance To Qualify
Delhi Capitals, still in contention for the playoffs, are now facing slim chances of qualification. Their loss to GT was not just defeat, it was a major blow to their campaign. DC needs to win their last two remaining matches to have a chance at qualifying, it also depends on Mumbai Indians if they lose their two matches there are high chances DC could qualify.
DC posted 199/4 in their innings, with KL Rahul scoring a classic hundred. But their bowlers failed to make an impact, and GT chased the target easily.
Updated Points Table
| Rank | Team | Matches Played | Wins | Losses | Points | Net Run Rate |
| 1 | Gujarat Titans (Q) | 12 | 9 | 3 | 18 | +0.795 |
| 2 | Royals Challenger s Bengaluru (Q) | 12 | 8 | 3 | 17 | +0.482 |
| 3 | Punjab Kings (Q) | 12 | 8 | 3 | 17 | +0.389 |
| 4 | Mumbai Indians | 12 | 7 | 5 | 14 | +1.156 |
| 5 | Delhi Capitals | 12 | 6 | 5 | 13 | +0.260 |
Q* denotes teams that have qualified for the playoffs.
One Spot Left
Only one playoff spot remains, and Mumbai Indians (MI) are well-placed to claim it. With 14 points, they need just one win from their remaining two games to secure qualification. Delhi Capitals still have a slim chance, but their fate now depends on how other teams perform.
As the league stage nears its end, all eyes are now on the battle for the last playoff spot and the final order of the top four teams. Positioning is important, as the top two teams get an extra chance through Qualifier 1. RCB, GT, and PBKS will now focus on staying in the top two. The excitement is far from over!
Written by Kinjal Walantra
