The IPL 2025 season has reached its halfway mark, and the playoff race is heating up except for three teams that are struggling to stay afloat. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) , Rajasthan Royals (RR) , and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) find themselves at the bottom of the points table after 33 matches in the tournament. With just 4 points from 7 games each, their chances of making it to the playoffs look increasingly slim.
Let’s break down their current situation, analyze their struggles, and see if there’s still hope for a miraculous comeback.
Current Standings of CSK, RR, and SRH
Team | Position | Matches Played | Wins | Losses | Points | Net Run Rate |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) | 8th | 7 | 2 | 5 | 4 | -0.567 |
Rajasthan Royals (RR) | 9th | 7 | 2 | 5 | 4 | -0.723 |
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) | 10th | 7 | 2 | 5 | 4 | -0.645 |
All three teams have identical records: 2 wins, 5 losses, and 4 points , leaving them in the bottom three positions. Their negative net run rates further complicate their chances of overtaking the top seven teams in the points table.
How Many Wins Do They Need for Playoffs?
Historically, teams need at least 16 points (8 wins) to secure a playoff spot in the IPL. In some cases, 14 points with a strong net run rate might suffice, but that’s not an option for these three teams due to their poor NRR.
Here’s what they need to do:
- Current Points : 4
- Points Needed : 12 more points (6 wins) from their remaining 7 matches.
- Challenge : Winning 6 out of 7 matches is no easy feat, especially given their inconsistent performances so far.
Team | Remaining Matches | Wins Needed | Chances of Playoffs |
---|---|---|---|
CSK | 7 | 6 | Low |
RR | 7 | 6 | Low |
SRH | 7 | 6 | Low |
With only seven matches left , these teams must win nearly every game to stand a chance a tall order considering their recent form.
Why Are These Teams Struggling?
Each team faces unique challenges:
- Chennai Super Kings (CSK) :
- Despite performing well in all three departments (batting, bowling, and fielding), CSK lacks consistency. Their inability to capitalize on key moments has cost them dearly.
- Rajasthan Royals (RR) :
- Internal rifts between captain Sanju Samson , coach Ryan Barak , and the management have reportedly affected team morale. A divided squad cannot perform at its best, and this is evident in their results.
- Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) :
- SRH’s aggressive batting strategy has backfired, leading to inconsistent totals. Their bowling unit is also struggling, with frequent changes in the lineup disrupting rhythm.
Fan Reactions to the Teams’ Struggles
Here’s what fans are saying about the situation:
Fan Reaction | Vote Count |
---|---|
These teams need a miracle to make playoffs! | 60% |
Poor management is costing them the season. | 40% |
A majority of fans (60%) believe these teams need a miracle to qualify, while others feel mismanagement and internal issues are the root cause of their struggles.
Final Thoughts
While mathematically possible, the road to the playoffs for CSK , RR , and SRH looks incredibly steep. Their poor net run rates and inconsistent performances make it unlikely they’ll overtake the top seven teams. However, stranger things have happened in the IPL, and cricket fans know better than to write off any team too soon.
Will these teams rise to the occasion and stage a stunning comeback? Or will their playoff hopes fade away entirely? Only time will tell!