Get the Complete Understanding of the PKL 12 Playoffs Format

The PKL 2025 playoffs feature eight teams and nine matches, starting on October 25 and ending with the final on October 31 in Delhi. Teams placed 5th-8th compete in Play-in matches, while the top two go directly to Qualifier 1. Winners progress through Mini-Qualifier, Eliminators, and Qualifiers to reach the grand final.

After the conclusion of the Pro Kabaddi League 2025 league stage, the focus now shifts to the playoffs, which will be hosted in Delhi from October 25 to October 31. This season introduces a new eight-team playoff format featuring nine matches spread across multiple stages including Play-ins, a Mini-Qualifier, Eliminators, and Qualifiers before the grand final.

Teams finishing 5th to 8th will compete in two Play-in matches (5th vs 8th and 6th vs 7th), with winners advancing to Eliminator 1. The sides placed 3rd and 4th will meet in the Mini-Qualifier, where the winner proceeds directly to Eliminator 3, while the loser faces the winner of Eliminator 1 in Eliminator 2. The victorious team from Eliminator 3 then meets the loser of Qualifier 1 in Qualifier 2.

The top two teams from the league phase contest Qualifier 1, with the winner securing a direct spot in the final and the loser getting another chance in Qualifier 2. The Final, scheduled for October 31, will determine the PKL 2025 champion. The structure rewards top teams with a shorter route to the final, while lower-ranked sides must win all six matches to lift the trophy.