Punjab Kings’ (PBKS) hopes of securing a coveted top-two finish in IPL 2025 took a significant hit after a six-wicket defeat to Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Saturday. However, the playoff race remains wide open, and Punjab’s destiny is still in their own hands as the league heads into its final round of fixtures.
Delhi Capitals spoil Punjab Kings’ party
Punjab Kings entered the field knowing a victory would virtually assure them a top-two spot and the crucial advantage of two shots at reaching the final. Put in to bat first, Punjab posted a formidable 206/8, thanks to a fluent 53 from Shreyas Iyer and a late onslaught by Marcus Stoinis, who hammered 44* off 16 balls. Mustafizur Rahman starred for Delhi with three wickets, stalling Punjab’s momentum at critical junctures.
Delhi’s chase was anchored by KL Rahul’s brisk 35 and Faf du Plessis’ 23, but it was Sameer Rizvi’s fearless 58* off 25 balls that sealed the win with a six in the 19.3 over. Despite the morale-boosting win, Delhi Capitals remain out of playoff contention, while Punjab Kings, now on 17 points from 13 matches, must regroup quickly.
With this loss, Punjab Kings remain second on the table but are now under threat from Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Mumbai Indians (MI), both of whom are within striking distance. Gujarat Titans (GT) lead the standings with 18 points, while RCB are level with Punjab on 17 points, and MI follow closely with 16.
Also READ: IPL 2025 – Here’s how RCB can finish in top two even after a big defeat against SRH
How Punjab Kings can still finish in the top two?
Punjab’s fate hinges on the outcome of the final round of league matches. Here are the scenarios that could see them clinch a top-two finish:
Win against Mumbai Indians: Punjab must defeat Mumbai Indians in their last league game. A win would take them to 19 points, strengthening their claim for a top-two spot.
Other results to watch:
If RCB lose to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and GT beat Chennai Super Kings, Punjab will finish in the top two alongside GT.
Alternatively, if RCB win but GT lose to CSK, Punjab and RCB will both end on 19 points, and net run rate could decide the second spot.
If Punjab lose to MI: They will be out of contention for a top-two finish, regardless of other results, and will have to settle for a spot in the Eliminator.
With such a tight points table, net run rate is likely to play a crucial role. Punjab’s strong NRR gives them a slight edge, but any slip-up against MI could prove costly.
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