Gujarat Titans crush DC by 10 wickets to seal playoff spot with RCB, PBKS

Gujarat Titans on Sunday became the first team to officially qualify for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 Playoffs, following a dominant 10-wicket win over Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The comprehensive win not only solidified Gujarat’s position at the top of the table but also confirmed playoff berths for Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings.

With this win, Gujarat Titans climbed to the summit of the IPL 2025 standings with 18 points from 12 matches. Their superior net run rate and consistency throughout the season have made them the early pacesetters heading into the final phase of the tournament.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who have displayed tremendous form this season, trail just behind with 17 points in as many outings. Meanwhile, Punjab Kings, riding high after a narrow but crucial 10-run win over Rajasthan Royals earlier in the day, also joined the playoff roster with 17 points from 12 games.

The playoff qualification scenario, which had been tightly contested for several weeks, finally saw some clarity with Gujarat’s emphatic win over Delhi. The Titans’ top-order firepower, coupled with disciplined bowling, proved too strong for the Capitals, who failed to mount a competitive total or halt the chase.

Delhi Capitals, despite the setback, are still in the hunt for a playoff spot, though their margin for error has now reduced significantly. Joining them in the race are Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants, both of whom need strong finishes to break into the top four. Each of these sides must now rely not just on their own performances but also on the outcomes of other fixtures and net run rate dynamics.

On the flip side, four former champions, Chennai Super Kings, Rajasthan Royals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Kolkata Knight Riders, have been officially eliminated from playoff contention. These sides have either struggled for form, consistency, or failed to capitalize on critical moments, resulting in their early exit from the tournament.

As the league stage approaches its final leg, the competition for the remaining playoff spot is expected to intensify. With only a handful of matches left, every over, run, and wicket could shape the final standings. For Gujarat Titans, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Punjab Kings, the focus now shifts to maintaining momentum and securing a favorable position for the knockouts.

This article first appeared on Mid Day