Delhi Capitals’ playoff hopes hang by a thread as they enter a do-or-die phase in the IPL. With just two matches left, they must win both to keep their season alive. Their first crucial test comes against Mumbai Indians on Wednesday a team equally desperate for victory to stay in the playoff race.
Delhi Capitals, Hardik Pandya’s Mumbai Indians must also win their remaining two matches to secure a top-four spot. The clash at Wankhede Stadium promises high stakes, but rain threatens to disrupt the contest.
Mumbai Indians is under a four-day yellow alert, with an 80% chance of rain during the day, potentially lasting 1.5 hours. While the probability drops to 25% at night, the unpredictable weather leaves the match vulnerable to a washout.
A no-result would be a major blow to Delhi Capitals playoff chances:
- Mumbai Indians (currently 13 points) would rise to 15 points.
- Delhi Capitals (currently 12 points) would reach 14 points.
Since both teams face Punjab Kings in their final league match, Delhi Capitals fate would then depend on Mumbai Indians result against Punjab:
If Mumbai beats Punjab, Delhi Capitals is eliminated even if they win their last game. If Mumbai loses to Punjab, Delhi Capitals can still qualify by defeating Punjab and improving their net run rate.
For Delhi Capitals, a rain-affected game is a nightmare scenario. Their best chance is to play a full match and secure a win, keeping their destiny in their own hands. Otherwise, they’ll be left praying for Mumbai’s defeat in the final league game.
With so much at stake, every ball and every raindrop could decide the playoff race. Will Mustafizur and Delhi Capitals keep their hopes alive, or will Mumbai push them to the brink? The weather might just have the final say.