IPL 2025: Playoffs qualification scenario for RCB after washed out game against KKR

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The much-anticipated IPL 2025 encounter between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium was washed out without a ball being bowled, as relentless rain forced the match to be abandoned. While this result dashed KKR’s playoff hopes, it significantly boosted RCB’s position at the top of the table, intensifying the drama in the race for the playoffs. Here’s a look at how the washout impacts RCB’s qualification scenario and what lies ahead for the team.

The abandoned match handed both teams a point, moving RCB to 17 points from 12 matches and propelling them to the top of the IPL 2025 standings, just ahead of Gujarat Titans (16 points from 11 games). This result means RCB now require just one win from their remaining two league games to guarantee a spot in the playoffs. Their upcoming fixtures are against Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 23 and Lucknow Super Giants on May 27.

Winning either of these matches will seal RCB’s playoff berth. If RCB manage to win both, they could secure a coveted top-two finish, which brings the advantage of an extra chance to reach the final via Qualifier 1. Even if RCB lose both games, their strong points tally keeps them in a favourable position, though their qualification would then depend on net run rate and results elsewhere-a scenario they would prefer to avoid.

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The washout was a knockout blow for KKR, leaving them stranded at 12 points from 13 matches and mathematically out of the playoff race. For RCB, the rain not only eased their playoff worries but also set the stage for their fans to focus on the remaining home fixture, which could be a fitting farewell for Virat Kohli, who recently announced his retirement from Test cricket.

The Chinnaswamy Stadium, notorious for rain interruptions, witnessed its seventh complete washout in IPL history during this match. Earlier this season, another RCB home game was shortened due to rain, underlining the venue’s susceptibility to weather disruptions.

While RCB’s qualification scenario is now straightforward, the team and its supporters will be eager to secure a win quickly and shift their attention to finishing in the top two-a position that not only rewards consistency but also offers a strategic edge in the playoffs. With the league table tightly packed and no team officially qualified yet, every match in the final stretch carries immense significance.

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