The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has kicked off in spectacular fashion, with thrilling matches, breathtaking performances, and a fierce competition among teams to secure their spot in the playoffs. Amid the excitement, former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has stirred the pot with his bold prediction of the top four teams likely to make it to the playoffs. His choices have sparked debates and surprise among fans, especially as he excluded last season’s finalists Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).
Irfan Pathan’s top four picks for IPL playoffs
Pathan revealed his playoff predictions on his YouTube channel, naming Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Mumbai Indians (MI), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), and Delhi Capitals (DC) as his top contenders for IPL 2025. These selections reflect his belief in the resurgence of seasoned franchises and their ability to capitalize on their revamped squads.
Chennai Super Kings: Spin to win
Pathan placed Chennai Super Kings at the forefront of his predictions, citing their well-balanced squad and strategic use of spin bowling. With stalwarts like Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Noor Ahmad forming a formidable spin trio, CSK is expected to exploit turning pitches effectively. Additionally, their batting lineup has been strengthened with experienced players like Devon Conway and Rahul Tripathi. Under Ruturaj Gaikwad’s captaincy, CSK aim to reclaim its dominance after missing out on playoffs last season.
Mumbai Indians: A fresh start
Despite finishing last in IPL 2024, Pathan believes Mumbai Indians are poised for a comeback this season. Led by Hardik Pandya, MI boast a blend of experience and youthful energy. The return of Jasprit Bumrah from injury could significantly bolster their bowling attack alongside Trent Boult and Deepak Chahar. With match-winners like Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav in the squad, Pathan expects MI to emerge as strong contenders.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: New leadership, Same passion
Royal Challengers Bengaluru have consistently been a fan-favourite team but has struggled to clinch the IPL trophy. This year, under new captain Rajat Patidar, RCB have made impactful additions to its squad. Players like Phil Salt bring championship experience, while Virat Kohli remains a pivotal figure in guiding the team’s strategy. Pathan highlighted RCB’s experienced bowling lineup featuring Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar as key assets for their playoff push.
Delhi Capitals: Firepower Meets Fearlessness
Delhi Capitals round off Pathan’s list due to their explosive batting lineup and solid bowling attack. With players like Jake Fraser-McGurk, Faf du Plessis, KL Rahul, and Mitchell Starc in their ranks, DC combine international experience with fearless cricket. Pathan emphasized the importance of Starc’s ability to deliver crucial overs at critical moments, which could be instrumental in DC’s success.
My Top 4 teams for IPL 2025 — bold calls, big expectations!
Kya aapki team meri list mein hai?
Catch the full breakdown only on YouTube:https://t.co/NQixk8f3aN
Drop your top 4 in the replies!#SeedhiBaat #IPL2025 #Top4Prediction #IrfanPathan pic.twitter.com/3CqrUPSJsy
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) March 27, 2025
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Surprising exclusions of KKR and SRH
Pathan’s decision to exclude Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad from his playoff predictions has raised eyebrows. Both teams reached the finals last season, with KKR claiming the championship title. SRH started IPL 2025 with an explosive batting display against Rajasthan Royals but failed to make it into Pathan’s top four. Fans have speculated whether personal dynamics or strategic concerns influenced his choices.
While Pathan’s predictions have sparked debates among people of cricket, they highlight the unpredictable nature of IPL—a league where fortunes can change dramatically within a few matches. As teams battle it out on the field, only time will tell whether Pathan’s foresight proves accurate or if other franchises rise to challenge his chosen contenders.
Also READ: AB de Villiers reveals his choice for India’s next captain after Rohit Sharma
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