Mumbai Indians IPL 2025 playoff scenarios: Hardik Pandya on course to take MI in top four

The Mumbai Indians (MI) probably have the best squad on paper at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. A power-packed batting unit followed by the world’s best pacer and a genius white-ball spinner. Not to forget, four international captains to help the leader, Hardik Pandya. However, despite all this, they find themselves in the middle-muddle logjam at the IPL 2025 points table. How can MI qualify for the IPL 2025 playoffs? Let’s discuss below.

MI at IPL 2025 so far…

Mumbai’s tradition of failing to win in their first match of an IPL continued when the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) edged past them in Chennai. Then, MI stuttered again in Ahmedabad before finally tasting success when they ran through KKR at Wankhede. But then came two back-to-back 12-run defeats to LSG and RCB, respectively. Mumbai, who were once touted as the best chasing team, failed to find the right formula to hunt down totals.

But now, things have fallen into place for the five-time champions. They registered a come-from-behind win away from home over team-in-form Delhi Capitals before humbling Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their latest outing. Now, MI have gained three wins, not ideal, but enough to keep them in contention.

MI at IPL 2025: Last 6 games, at least 5 wins ideal

As of April 21, Mumbai Indians are among the teams that have completed 8 of their 14 group-stage matches. They sit on 8 points with a 4-4 win-loss record and are currently placed sixth on the IPL 2025 points table. Their situation isn’t ideal, but it’s far from hopeless.

Traditionally, 16 points is the benchmark for playoff qualification in the IPL. Mumbai Indians, currently on 8 points from 8 matches, will need to win at least 4 of their remaining 6 matches to perhaps automatically qualify for the playoffs.

Remaining IPL 2025 matches for the Mumbai Indians

It’s a mixed bag. MI still have home games left, which is a huge plus. And the good news is that they face two of the current bottom-four teams: RR and SRH — all sides they’ve either beaten or can feel confident against.

The bigger challenges will be GT, PBKS and LSG, three teams presently in the top half. Beating one or two of them is key. MI also end their season at home against Delhi Capitals, who’ve been among the top sides this season. But a final match at the Wankhede, especially if qualification is on the line, could bring out the best in them.

Here’s how MI’s path to the playoffs shapes up: