Pic Credit: IPL
The IPL 2025 playoffs kick off with a high-stakes clash between Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Thursday evening at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur. With neither team having won the IPL title before, this Qualifier 1 matchup is a golden chance to edge closer to that elusive trophy. PBKS last reached the final in 2014, while RCB have been runners-up three times.
Originally, the playoffs were set to take place in Kolkata and Hyderabad. However, due to a week-long suspension of the tournament amid the India-Pakistan conflict, the schedule was reshuffled. The BCCI moved the playoffs to Punjab and Ahmedabad to minimize rain risks, though there’s still a chance weather could play spoilsport.
What Happens If It Rains Tonight?
If tonight’s Qualifier 1 is washed out due to rain and no result is possible, Punjab Kings will automatically progress to the final, thanks to finishing top of the league stage. RCB, who ended second, will still get another shot at the title in Qualifier 2, where they’ll face the winner of the Eliminator match.
Is There Extra Time for Rain Delays?
Yes. According to Clause 13.7.3 of the IPL Playing Conditions, up to 120 minutes of extra time can be used in the playoffs (except the final) if there’s a delay or interruption. This extra time is used before any other adjustments, like shortening innings or reducing the innings break.
It’s also important to note that the 10-minute break before a Super Over does not count toward this extra time.
What About a Reserve Day?
The official IPL rulebook says reserve days for playoff matches will be mentioned in the schedule, but so far, the IPL governing council hasn’t confirmed any. Given the last-minute changes due to the conflict, it looks like only the final will have a reserve day. The rest, including tonight’s match, likely won’t.
