PBKS vs MI: Who qualifies for IPL 2025 final if Qualifier 2 is washed out?

The stage is set for a blockbuster showdown as Punjab Kings (PBKS) face Mumbai Indians (MI) in Qualifier 2 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. The high-stakes encounter is being played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad tongiht. The match has been delyaed due to rain as the showers have continued after the toss tonight. Mumbai will be batting first after Punjab won the toss and elected to field first in the crucial tie.  With a spot in the final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) up for grabs, both teams are expected to come out all guns blazing. 

 

What if rain disrupts play?

 

Although weather forecasts suggest clear skies over Ahmedabad, the unpredictability of weather has often impacted key matches in the past. If rain does make an unexpected appearance during match hours, it could lead to delays or a shortened game. According to IPL rules, a minimum of five overs per side must be bowled for the match to be considered valid.

 

However, if persistent rain prevents even a 5-over-per-side match, the game will be declared abandoned. Notably, there is no reserve day scheduled for this crucial Qualifier 2 clash.

 

Who qualifies if Qualifier 1 is washed out? 

In case the match is washed out and cannot be completed, the team that finished higher in the league stage standings will automatically qualify for the final. This rule is in place to reward the better-performing team during the regular season. 

 

Punjab Kings, who topped the points table with 19 points, are in a favorable position in the event of a washout. Despite their heavy defeat to RCB in Qualifier 1, their consistency throughout the season gives them the edge over MI, who finished fourth with 16 points. MI may have triumphed over Gujarat Titans in the Eliminator, but PBKS' higher standing in the league stage would see them progress if Qualifier 2 is abandoned.

 

Ahmedabad weather forecast

According to available forecasts, the weather in Ahmedabad is expected to be favorable for cricket. The temperature is likely to hover around 35°C at the start of the match, cooling to approximately 31°C by the end. Humidity levels are projected to range between 48% and 56%. Importantly, the sky is expected to remain clear, significantly reducing the chances of rain affecting the match.