RCB vs KKR / Champion KKR out of IPL, number 1 RCB will also be eliminated!

RCB vs KKR: The exciting race of IPL 2025 has started again from May 17, but the start could not be as expected. The first match was to be played between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), but continuous rain put a stop to this excitement. The toss could not be done and the match was declared canceled. As a result, both the teams got one point each.

KKR's farewell, RCB on top but danger remains

With this canceled match, KKR has a total of 11 points in 12 matches, and with this their exit from the tournament is also confirmed. It has become the fourth team to be out of the playoff race this season. On the other hand, RCB now has 17 points in its account and has currently reached the top of the points table. But despite this lead, Bangalore's path is not completely safe.

RCB's equation: In limbo even though they are on top

Even though RCB have 17 points from 12 matches, their playoff berth is still not confirmed. Gujarat Titans have 16 points from 11 matches and are in second place. At the same time, Mumbai Indians are also behind with 14 points from 12 matches. If both these teams win their remaining matches and get 18-18 points, and Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals also reach 17-17 points, then RCB will have to decide its fate on the basis of net run rate.

Battle of points and run rate

Punjab Kings have 15 points from 11 matches, while Delhi Capitals have 13 points. In such a situation, both the teams have a chance to equal RCB's 17 points. Currently, RCB has a better net run rate (+0.482), but Punjab (+0.376) and Delhi (+0.362) are not far behind. If RCB loses against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their next matches, the net run rate may drop and the team may be eliminated.

What does RCB have to do?

The safest way for RCB to secure a place in the playoffs is to win both their remaining matches. This will give the team 21 points and they will directly advance to the next round. If they win even just one match, their place is almost assured with 19 points.

Apart from this, other matches will also have to be kept in mind. On May 18, there is a match between Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals, while Delhi Capitals will face Gujarat Titans. If either Punjab or Delhi lose both of these matches, RCB's path to the playoffs will become easier—even if they stop at just 17 points.