IPL 2025 / RCB is out! Mumbai-Punjab have fun, big upset in the race for top 2

IPL 2025: In the 65th match of IPL 2025, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) suffered a crushing defeat by 42 runs against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). This defeat not only shook the morale of RCB, but also dealt a severe blow to its hopes of reaching the top-2. The team had already qualified for the playoffs, but now it has slipped to third place in the points table and has only one league match left. This situation can benefit Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians, who are now strongly in the race to reach the top-2.

Defeat changed the equation, increased the thrill of the match

RCB has so far collected 17 points in 13 matches and its net run rate is +0.255. Gujarat Titans are in first place with 18 points and a better net run rate of +0.602. At the same time, Punjab Kings are in second place with 17 points and a net run rate of +0.389. Mumbai Indians have also kept themselves in the race - they have 16 points and their net run rate is +1.292, which is the highest among the four teams.

It is worth noting that RCB, Mumbai and Gujarat have only one match left while Punjab has a chance to play two matches, which has made the equation more complicated.

How can RCB make it to the top-2?

It will not be easy for RCB to secure a place in the top-2 now. There are many 'if-but' situations in front of them:

A big win is necessary in the last match:

RCB has to win its last league match, but only victory will not be enough. The margin of victory should be so big that the team's net run rate becomes better than Punjab and Gujarat.

Prayer for Punjab's defeat:

If Punjab Kings lose both their remaining matches, RCB can get a clear path to make it to the top-2.

Mathematics of Gujarat's defeat and net run rate:

If Gujarat loses its last match and RCB wins its match, the points may be equal. In such a situation, the role of net run rate will become decisive.

Mumbai's challenge:

Mumbai Indians has the strongest net run rate. If it wins its last match and RCB and Gujarat lose, Mumbai can directly reach the top-2.

Playoffs confirmed, but now the target is top-2

The playoff ticket is confirmed for Royal Challengers Bangalore, but the road ahead in the tournament does not look easy. To make it to the top-2, now not only will they have to improve their game, but they will also have to keep an eye on the performance of other teams. At this exciting juncture, the league stage is at its peak, and fans can get to see tremendous matches in the coming days.