The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season is nearing its crescendo, with Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Mumbai Indians (MI) set to face off in the high-stakes Qualifier 2 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on June 1. The winner will advance to the final to clash with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for the coveted title. However, a significant concern looms over this crucial encounter: the weather. What happens if rain intervenes and washes out the PBKS vs MI Qualifier 2 match?
Understanding the Weather Threat
While weather forecasts suggest a relatively low chance of rain, the possibility of showers cannot be entirely dismissed. Even a brief spell of rain could potentially delay the match or even lead to it being abandoned altogether. Given the importance of this game, it's crucial to understand the scenarios that could unfold due to inclement weather.
Reduced Overs and Cut-Off Times
The primary objective of the IPL organizers and match officials will be to try and get a game in, even if it means reducing the number of overs. According to IPL regulations, a minimum of five overs per side needs to be played to constitute a valid match. The duration of the match can be reduced depending on the cut-off time. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and IPL Governing Council have also added an extra 120 minutes to the playing time for playoff matches to accommodate rain delays.
What if a 5-Over Game Isn't Possible?
If heavy and persistent rain prevents even a 5-over match from being played, the situation becomes more complex. In such a scenario, where the game is abandoned without the minimum number of overs being bowled, the team that finished higher in the league stage of the tournament will advance to the final.
Punjab Kings' Advantage
In the IPL 2025 season, Punjab Kings finished at the top of the points table with 19 points and a net run rate of +0.372. Mumbai Indians, on the other hand, finished fourth with 16 points and a net run rate of +1.142. Therefore, if the Qualifier 2 match is washed out entirely, Punjab Kings will automatically qualify for the final to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
No Reserve Day for Qualifier 2
Unlike the IPL final, Qualifier 2 does not have a reserve day. This means that if the match cannot be completed on June 1 due to rain, the above-mentioned rule will be applied, and Punjab Kings will progress to the final based on their superior position in the league standings. The final has a reserve day on June 3, so if weather disrupts the match, the final will be played on June 4.
Super Over Scenario
In the event of a tie, a Super Over is used to determine the winner. However, if a Super Over is not possible due to weather conditions, the team that finished higher in the league standings will be declared the winner.
Efforts to Avoid a Washout
The IPL governing council has taken measures to minimize the risk of washouts by adding an extra two-hour window to facilitate the completion of matches in case of weather interruptions. This provision aims to give ground staff sufficient time to prepare the pitch and outfield for play, even after moderate rain delays.
The Stakes
For Punjab Kings, reaching the final would be a momentous occasion. They have not reached the finals since 2014, and are determined to win the title this season. For Mumbai Indians, a five-time IPL champion, making it to the finals is a chance to add another trophy to their cabinet.
