1 spot, 3 contenders: Play-off race goes down to the wire

Mumbai, Delhi and Lucknow battle it out as Gujarat, Bengaluru and Punjab seal spots

- BY A.K.S. SATISH Sports Editor

The play-off door is closing - and three teams are jostling to squeeze through.

With Gujarat Titans, Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru confirming their places on Sunday, only one vacancy remains in the IPL 2025 play-offs. Lucknow Super Giants, Delhi Capitals, and Mumbai Indians are still in contention — but one team seems to be pulling ahead just in time.

The day's biggest statement came from Gujarat, who romped to a 10-wicket win over Delhi in the evening match. Earlier, Punjab survived a late charge from Rajasthan Royals to clinch a 10-run victory in Jaipur — ensuring both they and Bengaluru joined Gujarat in the knockouts.

Delicately poised