The IPL 2025 mega auction has concluded, and with it, the squads for all ten franchises are locked in. As teams prepare for the much-anticipated season, fans are buzzing with excitement and speculation about which franchises have the edge. While some teams appear to lack the firepower to make a mark, a few have emerged as clear favorites. Based on their well-rounded squads, here are the four strongest contenders for the IPL 2025 playoffs.
The Top Four Contenders
1. Mumbai Indians (MI)
The five-time champions are once again in the spotlight, with a solid core and exciting new additions. Led by Hardik Pandya, MI boasts an enviable lineup featuring Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, and promising talents like Tilak Varma. Their bowling attack, bolstered by Trent Boult and Deepak Chahar, ensures MI is as dangerous as ever. With a blend of experience and young blood, MI is a strong favorite to reach the playoffs.
2. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
RCB fans have long awaited an IPL trophy, and 2025 might just be their year. With Virat Kohli expected to return as captain, RCB’s squad has a balanced mix of power hitters like Liam Livingstone and dependable bowlers such as Josh Hazlewood. Add the all-round capabilities of Krunal Pandya and the finishing touch of Tim David, and RCB looks poised to make a deep run this season.
3. Delhi Capitals (DC)
Under the leadership of KL Rahul, DC has assembled a formidable team. The presence of Mitchell Starc, Harry Brook, and Faf du Plessis gives them a lethal combination of pace, power, and experience. With young stars like Ashutosh Sharma and an effective bowling unit featuring T. Natarajan, Delhi’s lineup appears ready to outplay their rivals.
4. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
Finalists in IPL 2024, SRH is determined to go one step further this season. Skipper Pat Cummins leads a squad packed with match-winners like Ishan Kishan, Mohammad Shami, and Travis Head. Their spin attack, led by Adam Zampa, complements a batting lineup capable of chasing or defending any total. SRH’s all-around strength makes them a formidable opponent.
Challenges Await
While these teams appear strong, IPL is synonymous with unpredictability. Injuries, form slumps, and surprise performances from other franchises could pose challenges. However, based on squad depth and star power, these four teams are well-positioned to make it to the playoffs.
Probable Captains for IPL 2025
- Mumbai Indians: Hardik Pandya
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Virat Kohli (unofficial)
- Delhi Capitals: KL Rahul
- Sunrisers Hyderabad: Pat Cummins
Complete Squads
Mumbai Indians (MI)
Hardik Pandya, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Trent Boult, Naman Dhir, Robin Minz, Deepak Chahar, and others.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
Virat Kohli, Liam Livingstone, Josh Hazlewood, Tim David, Krunal Pandya, and others.
Delhi Capitals (DC)
KL Rahul, Mitchell Starc, Harry Brook, Faf du Plessis, T. Natarajan, and others.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
Pat Cummins, Ishan Kishan, Mohammad Shami, Adam Zampa, Travis Head, and others.