IPL 2025 PLAYOFFS: CAN ROYAL CHALLENGERS BENGALURU STILL FINISH IN THE TOP TWO? ALL SCENARIOS EXPLAINED

IPL 2025 Playoffs: Can Royal Challengers Bengaluru Still Finish in the Top Two? All Scenarios Explained

IPL 2025 Playoffs: Can Royal Challengers Bengaluru Still Finish in the Top Two? All Scenarios Explained

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As the Tata IPL 2025 season approaches its thrilling climax, every match counts more than ever. If you’re looking for an accurate IPL 2025 match prediction, the playoff race is heating up, especially around Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). After a recent setback, RCB’s chances of securing a top-two finish—and thus a direct spot in Qualifier 1—are hanging by a thread. Here’s a detailed breakdown of RCB’s current standing, what lies ahead, and all possible scenarios for the playoffs.

RCB’s Recent Setback and Current Position

Royal Challengers Bengaluru suffered a heavy defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad by 42 runs in Lucknow. This loss has pushed RCB down from 2nd place to 3rd in the points table, with their net run rate (NRR) dropping from +0.482 to +0.255. With 17 points from 13 matches, RCB now faces stiff competition to maintain a top-two position.

Currently, Gujarat Titans (GT) lead with 18 points from 13 games, while Punjab Kings (PBKS) have 17 points from 12 matches—meaning PBKS still have one game in hand against RCB. The key match for RCB’s playoff hopes is against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on May 27.

Remaining Crucial Matches Affecting Playoff Spots

Here are the key remaining matches involving the top playoff contenders:

  • Punjab Kings vs. Delhi Capitals — May 24

  • Gujarat Titans vs. Chennai Super Kings — May 25

  • Punjab Kings vs. Mumbai Indians — May 26

  • Lucknow Super Giants vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru — May 27

Each of these games will impact the final points tally and the fate of the top two finishers.

What Happens If RCB Lose to LSG?

If RCB lose their last match against LSG, their chances of finishing in the top two virtually disappear. Even if other results go their way, Punjab Kings and Gujarat Titans are positioned to edge ahead.

Scenario:

  • Gujarat Titans beat CSK — reaching 20 points

  • Punjab Kings win both remaining matches — reaching 21 points

  • RCB stay at 17 points if they lose to LSG

In this scenario, RCB will finish 3rd or lower, missing out on Qualifier 1 and needing to play in the eliminator.

How Can RCB Secure a Top-Two Finish?

For RCB to clinch a top-two spot, they must first beat LSG, which would take them to 19 points. However, that alone won’t guarantee them a direct qualifier position—other results must align.

There are two key scenarios for RCB finishing in the top two:

Scenario 1: Gujarat Titans Lose to CSK on May 25
If GT lose to CSK, they will remain at 18 points. This means RCB’s 19 points (after beating LSG) will put them ahead of GT. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians can only reach a maximum of 18 points, and Punjab Kings can surpass RCB but only by winning both remaining matches.

Final standings in this case:

  • RCB: 19 points

  • GT: 18 points

  • MI: 18 points

  • PBKS: Could be above RCB if they win both games

Even if PBKS finish above RCB, RCB would still secure a top-two finish if their net run rate holds.

Scenario 2: Gujarat Titans Beat CSK and Reach 20 Points
If GT win against CSK, they will finish with 20 points, surpassing RCB’s potential 19 points. RCB can still finish second, but only if PBKS lose at least one of their remaining matches and finish on 19 points or less, with an inferior net run rate to RCB.

  • RCB’s current net run rate: +0.255

  • PBKS’s current net run rate: +0.389

PBKS losing both remaining games is the best-case scenario for RCB here to secure that second spot.

What to Watch in the Final Days of IPL 2025

With such a tight race, every run and wicket counts. Keep an eye on:

  • Net run rate swings during these final games

  • Key player performances in the last fixtures

  • Results of the crucial Punjab Kings and Gujarat Titans matches

Stay Updated and Make Your IPL 2025 Predictions with Winexch

For fans and followers looking to stay ahead with real-time updates, detailed analyses, and trusted IPL 2025 match prediction, Winexch offers a fantastic platform. Sign up with Winexch today to track the latest points table, match schedules, and player stats including the Orange Cap and Purple Cap races.

Winexch also provides expert insights to help you stay connected to the pulse of the tournament as the playoffs approach.

Summary

  • RCB currently 3rd with 17 points, must beat LSG to reach 19 points

  • Gujarat Titans and Punjab Kings hold the advantage but are vulnerable

  • RCB’s net run rate is positive but less than PBKS’s, making margin of victory important

  • Final playoff spots will depend on outcomes of matches between PBKS, GT, MI, and RCB

  • Winning the last game is crucial, but RCB also need other results to favor them

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The IPL 2025 playoffs promise to be one of the most exciting finishes in recent years. Stay tuned for more updates, and don’t miss out on signing up with Winexch for exclusive IPL 2025 content and match predictions.

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