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With just a few games left, the IPL 2025 playoff race is reaching fever pitch. Gujarat Titans and Royal Challengers Bengaluru lead the charge, but other teams are close behind. This has left the race to the title wide open. It also means every remaining match is crucial for the seven teams that can still qualify for the playoffs.
As fans eagerly await the league’s return after a sudden break, there’s one question that looms large: will one of the favourites hold on for glory, or will a dark horse emerge in this unpredictable season?
The Road So Far: A Look at the Current IPL 2025 Season
The 2025 Indian Premier League hasn’t disappointed in delivering high drama alongside standout performances. It’s also resulted in a tightly contested points table. Gujarat Titans and Royal Challengers Bengaluru sit on 16 points each, with Punjab Kings just a single point behind. Yet that doesn’t tell the full story as numerous teams – seven to be precise – remain in the hunt.
However, just as the playoff picture was taking shape, the tournament was abruptly halted.
Due to rising political tensions between India and Pakistan, the BCCI suspended the IPL for a week starting 9 May. The pause in proceedings was further accelerated due to a floodlight failure – and subsequent evacuation – during a match in Dharamsala. Fortunately, the postponement didn’t last for too long.
Play will resume on 17 May. With 17 matches compressed into the new schedule, including rescheduled games and double-headers, teams face a tight turnaround. This also means fewer rest days. So, the race for the title restarts, but under very different conditions.
The Main Contenders for IPL 2025 Glory
With the tournament heading into its final phase, six teams realistically remain in contention for a spot in the IPL playoffs – and that puts them one step closer to the trophy. Each side has shown flashes of brilliance, but consistency and nerve will now separate the best from the rest.
Using current Betway UK odds, here’s a closer look at each of the main contenders:
Gujarat Titans (13/5)
Gujarat Titans are one of the most stable sides heading into the final stretch. With 16 points from 11 games, as well as two of their remaining fixtures at home in Ahmedabad, they’re in prime position to seal a top two finish. Of course, the playoffs are only the start. Their strong net run rate and solid record at home make them a serious title threat.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (13/5)
Also on 16 points, Royal Challengers Bengaluru have momentum on their side. These two points alone highlight why they’re currently joint favourites. Backed by explosive batting and improved bowling, they’re also chasing a top two finish rather than simply qualification. Two of their three remaining games are at home, which further supports their push for the top.
Mumbai Indians (14/5)
It’s true: with 14 points from 12 matches, Mumbai Indians are walking a tightrope. Sat in fourth position, they need to win both of their final games to guarantee progression. Despite this, they’re currently viewed as close third favourites to win the IPL. As for getting to the playoffs, their excellent net run rate – the best in the league – could prove decisive in the event of a tie on points.
Punjab Kings (4/1)
Punjab Kings have been one of the league’s surprise packages. Sitting on 15 points with three games left, they even still have a chance to top the table if they win all remaining fixtures. Although due to the perilous nature of the league this season, their qualification is far from guaranteed. A single loss could throw their playoff hopes into uncertainty.
Delhi Capitals (16/1)
Currently on 13 points, Delhi Capitals must win all three remaining games to qualify without depending on other results. Their recent form hasn’t been convincing, admittedly, but the squad has enough quality to turn things around. However, it’s now or never.
The next two weeks will define the 2025 season. Each contender has a path to the championship, but only one can complete the journey.