If Match Is Abandoned in IPL Final, Here's How the Champion Is Decided

What Happens If the IPL Final Is Washed Out Due to Rain

In a high-profile tournament like the IPL, weather disruptions—especially rain—can sometimes lead to abandoned matches. And when it comes to the final, the stakes are even higher. So, if match is abandoned in IPL final, what happens next? Who is declared the winner, and are there any provisions in place to ensure a fair outcome?

Match Day: Officials Will Make Every Effort to Complete the Game

On the scheduled day of the IPL Final, match officials will explore all possible options to ensure the game is completed. These include:

Reducing the number of overs per side (minimum of 5 overs required for a result)

Delaying the start time

Extending play into late hours, if conditions permit

Only when play is not possible despite all adjustments will the Reserve Day be utilized.

Is There a Reserve Day for the IPL Final

Yes, the IPL Final includes a Reserve Day, specifically designated to accommodate any weather-related interruptions.

If the match cannot be completed on the original day due to rain or bad light, it will continue on the Reserve Day. Importantly, if the game has already started but remains unfinished, it will resume from the exact point of interruption, rather than starting over.

A notable example occurred during the 2023 IPL Final, originally scheduled for May 28 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Persistent rain forced the match to be postponed to the Reserve Day, May 29, where the Chennai Super Kings defeated the Gujarat Titans to win the title. This was the first time in IPL history that the final was completed on the Reserve Day.

If the Reserve Day Is Also Washed Out, Who Wins

One of the most common questions among fans is: What happens if match is abandoned in IPL final even after the Reserve Day?

According to BCCI regulations, if the match cannot be completed across both the scheduled day and the Reserve Day, there will be no further rescheduling. In such a case, the team that finished higher on the league stage points table will be declared the winner.

While this scenario has never occurred in IPL history (since its inception in 2008), the rule is firmly in place, highlighting the importance of each match during the league stage.

Official Rules: IPL Final Rain and Abandonment Policy

As outlined by the BCCI and the official IPL match guidelines, the procedures for a rain-affected IPL Final are as follows:

A Reserve Day is scheduled exclusively for the final.

If play is interrupted, the match will continue from the same point on the Reserve Day.

Overs may be reduced, with a minimum of 5 overs per side required to constitute a match.

If the minimum overs cannot be completed across both days, the match is declared No Result.

In that case, the team with the higher standing in the league stage is awarded the championship.

This system ensures transparency, fairness, and smooth coordination with broadcasters and fans alike.

Also Check: 

Which IPL Team Has the Most Fans?

IPL Winners List from 2008 to 2025

FAQs

Does the IPL Playoff Have a Reserve Day?

Yes, the IPL Final has a Reserve Day. However, Qualifier and Eliminator matches typically do not have a Reserve Day unless specifically stated.

When Do IPL Playoffs Usually Start?

The IPL Playoffs generally begin 1 to 2 days after the league stage ends, usually scheduled in mid to late May, depending on the season.