The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has delivered many surprises since it began on March 22. This is the 18th edition of the tournament, and 10 teams are playing a total of 74 matches. The final will be held on May 25 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
In the opening match, defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) faced Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). RCB stunned KKR with a seven-wicket win at Eden Gardens.
Format of the IPL 2025 Playoffs
The IPL format allows only the top four teams to reach the playoffs. The remaining six teams get eliminated. While some seasons have come down to the last league match, others see early eliminations. This season, IPL 2025 playoffs race has already seen three teams crash out even though 15 league matches are still to be played.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – First Team Eliminated
The first team to be eliminated from the IPL 2025 playoffs race was Chennai Super Kings. Led by MS Dhoni, CSK lost their must-win match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.
CSK were bowled out for 190 runs, with Sam Curran hitting 88. PBKS chased it down thanks to fifties from Shreyas Iyer and Prabhsimran Singh. Chahal’s hat-trick sealed CSK’s fate.
With only two wins in their first 10 games, CSK had just four points. Even if they win the rest, the maximum they can get is 12 points—not enough to reach the playoffs.
Rajasthan Royals (RR) – Another Early Exit
Rajasthan Royals became the second team to be knocked out of IPL 2025 playoffs contention. In their home game against Mumbai Indians, RR gave up 217 runs and then collapsed for 117, losing by 100 runs.
RR won only 3 of their first 11 matches and earned six points. Even if they win the remaining three games, they can reach just 12 points, which is not enough.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) – Rain Washes Out Hopes
Sunrisers Hyderabad, runners-up of IPL 2024, are the third team eliminated from the IPL 2025 playoffs race. Their crucial game against Delhi Capitals was washed out by rain. They needed a win, but only got one point.
With three matches left, even winning all of them will only get them to 13 points. That still won’t be enough to qualify.
What’s Next in IPL 2025?
As the tournament heads toward the playoffs, seven teams are still fighting for the top four spots. The battle is intense and promises more drama.
Stay tuned for more IPL 2025 playoffs updates and surprises as the league stage nears its end!
