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As IPL 2025 reaches its most thrilling stage, all eyes are set on Qualifier 1 between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Mullanpur Stadium. But with weather forecasts predicting rain, fans are left wondering—what happens if PBKS vs RCB gets washed out?
This article answers that question based on official IPL 2025 playoff rules, giving you everything you need to know about the rain-affected match scenario, team advantages, and what lies ahead for both franchises.
PBKS vs RCB: Clash of the Top Two Teams in IPL 2025
Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finished the league stage with 21 points each from 14 matches. However, PBKS secured the top spot thanks to a superior Net Run Rate (NRR). This small statistical edge could become a major factor if the IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 is abandoned due to rain.
No Reserve Day for IPL 2025 Qualifier 1
The Indian Premier League 2025 does not include a reserve day for Qualifier 1. This means that if the PBKS vs RCB game is washed out without a result, it will not be replayed or resumed on another day.
According to IPL playoff rules, in such cases, the team that finished higher on the league table will automatically advance to the final.
What Happens If PBKS vs RCB Gets Washed Out?
If rain prevents any play and the match is called off, Punjab Kings will advance to the IPL 2025 Final. This is because they ended the league phase as table-toppers, edging past RCB on Net Run Rate.
PBKS Benefit:
- Advance directly to the IPL 2025 Final
- First final appearance since 2014
- Avoid the pressure of Qualifier 2
RCB’s Position:
- Will drop to Qualifier 2
- Must play against the winner of the Eliminator (Mumbai Indians vs Gujarat Titans)
- Still have a second chance to reach the final
This rule highlights the importance of finishing at the top of the league stage, especially in seasons like IPL 2025, where no reserve days are allotted for early playoffs.
Punjab Kings: A Chance to Make History
For Punjab Kings, this could be a historic moment. They have not reached the IPL final since 2014, and this season under Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy and Ricky Ponting’s coaching, they’ve looked like a transformed team.
The PBKS squad in IPL 2025 has displayed consistency, depth, and fearless cricket. With rain potentially handing them a shortcut to the final, the Kings could have the best chance in years to claim their first-ever IPL title.
Their balanced batting lineup and solid bowling attack, led by emerging stars, has made them one of the most well-rounded sides in the league.
RCB: Another Playoff Test Awaits
Royal Challengers Bengaluru, despite their strong league performance, are once again facing a high-pressure playoff scenario. RCB has a history of playoff heartbreaks, and if Qualifier 1 gets washed out, they’ll have to gear up for another must-win match.
If RCB loses Qualifier 1 due to rain, they’ll face the Eliminator winner (MI or GT) in Qualifier 2. Only by winning that match can they reach the IPL 2025 final.
RCB fans will hope that their team’s momentum, built from a string of recent wins, carries forward—even if rain disrupts their direct final hopes.
No Reserve Day: A Rule Under Scrutiny?
The absence of a reserve day in IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 has raised questions among fans and cricket experts. Given the high stakes of playoff matches, critics argue that BCCI should consider adding reserve days to ensure fair results, especially when weather is unpredictable.
This year, with no backup day planned, the league stage results become even more crucial.
Weather Forecast for Mullanpur
As of Wednesday night, weather updates indicate possible showers and thunderstorms in Mullanpur on Thursday—the day of the match. IPL officials and local authorities are closely monitoring the situation, hoping to avoid a no-result scenario.
Ground staff are working around the clock to ensure the match can start if weather allows, but fans are advised to prepare for delays or even cancellation.
What Fans Can Expect: Aggressive Cricket or No Result?
Even with a looming rain threat, both PBKS and RCB are expected to take a no-holds-barred approach. Given that both teams have a second chance (RCB through Qualifier 2), they might play with aggression and freedom—if the match starts.
PBKS will look to dominate early, while RCB, led by experienced campaigners, will aim to disrupt Punjab’s rhythm.
Conclusion: IPL 2025 Playoffs Drama Continues
The IPL 2025 playoffs are living up to expectations, and even the weather is part of the drama. If PBKS vs RCB is washed out, Punjab Kings will advance to the final, while RCB gets one more chance via Qualifier 2.
This scenario reinforces how crucial every match in the league stage is, and why topping the table can have massive advantages—even beyond performance on the field.
Whether we get a full match or not, IPL 2025 fans are in for a rollercoaster ride. Stay tuned for updates, weather reports, and more playoff action!
