<\/p>\n
As Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025<\/strong><\/a> reaches its halfway point, the season has already served up a rich mix of drama, unpredictability, and memorable moments.<\/p>\n Traditional powerhouses like Chennai Super Kings<\/strong>, who boast five IPL titles, find themselves languishing at the bottom of the table, an unfamiliar position for a franchise known for consistency and success. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians<\/strong>, who also share five titles, endured a nightmarish start but have now staged a strong comeback, rejuvenated by a string of wins.<\/p>\n On the other hand, Royal Challengers Bengaluru<\/strong>, under new leadership, have been dominant on the away road but curiously winless at home. Gujarat Titans<\/strong>, led by the young and dynamic Shubman Gill<\/strong>, have soared to the top of the points table, further redefining the season\u2019s narrative. In light of this mid-season volatility, renowned cricket commentator and analyst Harsha Bhogle<\/strong><\/a> recently shared his predictions for the second half of the season on Cricbuzz \u2018s \u201cWill It or Will Not\u201d<\/em> segment, offering his measured verdicts on each franchise\u2019s fate.<\/p>\n The first question posed to Bhogle was centered on RCB: \u201cWill RCB win a home game this season?\u201d<\/em> Under the stewardship of newly appointed captain Rajat Patidar<\/strong>, RCB have turned heads with their away performances. From conquering Chepauk to silencing Wankhede, they have created history on the road. Yet, Chinnaswamy their home fortress remains winless for them.<\/p>\n Bhogle, however, struck a tone of optimism. \u201cYes. Too good a side. I mean it happens. Sometimes you go through a phase, but no, they will\u201d<\/em> he affirmed confidently. His faith in the squad suggests that the barren home run might just be an anomaly, and a turnaround at their fortress is likely in the second half.<\/p>\n Also WATCH: <\/strong>Mohammed Siraj and Rashid Khan\u2019s early celebration backfires as DRS gives Venkatesh Iyer a lifeline | KKR vs GT, IPL 2025<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Next came the question that perhaps tugged at the heartstrings of many loyal fans: \u201cWill CSK qualify for the playoffs?\u201d<\/em> For CSK, the 2025 season has been a test of resilience. Their trusted fortress, Chepauk, has been breached multiple times this year, and a major blow came in the form of skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad<\/strong>\u2019s injury. Even the return of their talismanic former captain MS Dhoni<\/strong> hasn\u2019t been enough to steady the ship, and with just two wins in eight games, the situation looks dire.<\/p>\n Bhogle offered a realistic yet somber prediction: \u201cNo. Strong team. Everybody likes CSK, but no not from here.\u201d<\/em> Despite their rich legacy, Bhogle believes the uphill battle may prove too steep this time around, suggesting that Chennai might be headed for one of their rare playoff misses.<\/p>\n The final and perhaps most intriguing question of the segment was about Mumbai: \u201cWill MI finish in the top 3?\u201d<\/em> After winning only one of their first five matches, Mumbai looked down and out. However, under Hardik Pandya<\/strong>\u2019s leadership and bolstered by Rohit Sharma<\/strong>\u2019s return to form highlighted by a blistering unbeaten half century against CSK the team has now won three consecutive games and appears to be regaining its groove.<\/p>\n Bhogle responded with cautious optimism: \u201cWon\u2019t it be a phenomenal IPL if they come up from there? But don\u2019t know,\u201d<\/em> While he stopped short of making a definitive prediction, his statement reflected the romantic allure of an MI comeback, a narrative IPL seasons have seen before. Whether they can climb into the top three remains one of the tournament\u2019s most thrilling prospects.<\/p>\nHarsha Bhogle\u2019s IPL 2025 mid-season prediction on the big three<\/strong><\/h2>\n
RCB: Home fort to be breached?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
CSK: The legacy of a champion faces its toughest test<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Mumbai Indians: A phoenix-like rise or a false dawn?<\/strong><\/h2>\n