DC vs MI: Playoff ticket on the line in high-stakes Wankhede clash

The race for the final IPL 2025 playoff spot intensifies as Delhi Capitals (DC) take on Mumbai Indians (MI) in a high-stakes clash at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. With five teams already eliminated and three having sealed their qualification, this showdown is virtually a do-or-die for both sides. The team that wins will move one step closer to booking that last ticket to the playoffs.

DC and MI have had contrasting journeys this season. Delhi started strong, winning 4 of their first 5 games, but their campaign has since derailed. They’ve failed to win in their last four matches—three losses and one washout. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians, who managed just a single win in their opening five matches, turned things around with six consecutive wins before stumbling in their last outing.

In their previous encounter, MI posted a commanding 205, powered by Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Ryan Rickelton, and Naman Dhir. Delhi, despite a valiant chase, fell short by 12 runs, derailed by Karn Sharma’s triple strike.

All eyes will be on Suryakumar Yadav, MI’s batting linchpin, who has amassed 510 runs at a strike rate of 170+. Rohit Sharma, too, has returned to form with 218 runs in his last five innings. On the bowling front, Jasprit Bumrah has been exceptional with an economy of 6.68, supported ably by Pandya, Boult, and Chahar—all with 10+ wickets.

Delhi will miss Mitchell Starc’s presence, especially after a toothless bowling display in their 10-wicket loss to Gujarat. The responsibility will fall on Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and the explosive Tristan Stubbs to revive their campaign.

Key battles to watch include Rohit vs Kuldeep, Surya vs Natarajan, and Axar vs Pandya—duels that could shape the match's narrative.

With playoff dreams hanging by a thread, both teams enter Wankhede knowing there’s no second chance. It’s pressure, pride, and playoffs—everything on the line.