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As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is about to reach its grand finale, excitement is at its peak — but so is uncertainty. The blockbuster clash between Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2 is being threatened by persistent rain in Ahmedabad, and with the final scheduled for June 3, the weather may play a spoilsport. Cricket fans across the globe are now asking: What if the rain washes out the final and even the reserve day? Here's a look at the potential outcomes, weather forecasts, and the irony behind the venue switch.
Rain Disrupts Qualifier 2: Punjab in Driver's Seat
The second qualifier between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) was set up with high stakes. PBKS won the toss and opted to bowl first, but just as the game was about to kick off, rain started its mischief. As the showers continued to interrupt proceedings, fans grew increasingly anxious.
If today’s match is abandoned due to rain, Punjab Kings will automatically advance to the final since they finished higher than MI in the IPL 2025 points table. That advantage could prove historic if rain continues into the final days.
What If the Final and Reserve Day Are Washed Out?
According to IPL regulations, if the final scheduled for June 3 and the reserve day on June 4 are both abandoned due to rain, the team that topped the points table will be declared the champions.
That means Punjab Kings, who led the league standings, will be crowned IPL 2025 champions without a ball being bowled in the final — a first in IPL history.
Weather Forecast: Hope vs. Haze
Final Day (June 3): Temperature is expected to hover around 27°C with a low likelihood of rain, but isolated thunderstorms could spoil the party.
Reserve Day (June 4): A 36% chance of thunderstorms has been predicted, making conditions slightly riskier for play. The IPL will make every effort to get a game in, even if reduced-overs are required.
Why IPL Playoffs Were Shifted from Kolkata and Hyderabad
Originally, Kolkata and Hyderabad were slated to host the final stages of the tournament. However, due to weather concerns and logistical considerations, the IPL Governing Council shifted the playoff matches to Ahmedabad and Chennai.
In an ironic twist, Kolkata remained dry while Ahmedabad turned soggy, leading to multiple delays and nervous waits.
“The new venues for the Playoffs were decided by the IPL Governing Council keeping in mind the weather conditions and other parameters,” the IPL said in a statement dated May 20.
Will the Rain Crown a Champion?
The IPL 2025 could end not with a roar, but a rain-soaked whimper. While players and fans alike hope for clear skies and a full-throttle final, nature might have the last word. If rain washes out both the final and the reserve day, the Punjab Kings will finally lift their maiden IPL trophy — a historic moment, albeit under unusual circumstances.
