But here’s the thing: many users end up repeating common mistakes in the playoffs—mistakes that can cost you matches, rankings, and prize money.
Let’s break down the top 5 mistakes you should avoid in fantasy cricket playoffs, with a real example from the PBKS vs MI IPL 2025 Qualifier 2.
???? Full match preview and fantasy tips:
???? PBKS vs MI – Qualifier 2 Prediction & Fantasy Tips
❌ Mistake 1: Picking Based on Popularity, Not Form
A common trap is selecting players just because they are well-known or have a huge fan base. Big names may have performed earlier in the season, but that doesn’t guarantee success in the playoffs.
What to do instead:
Pick players who are in good recent form. Use match stats from the last 3–5 games rather than season-long data. In the PBKS vs MI match, many picked Rohit Sharma as captain because of his brand name, while players like Tilak Varma and Liam Livingstone actually delivered better fantasy points.
???? Pro tip: Always check form-based insights like this one:
???? PBKS vs MI Fantasy Analysis
❌ Mistake 2: Ignoring Pitch and Venue Conditions
Playoffs are often played at neutral venues, and each stadium behaves differently. Some pitches favor spinners, others benefit fast bowlers or big hitters.
What to do instead:
Always look at the match venue and weather report before finalizing your fantasy team. For instance, the Chennai pitch is known for assisting spinners—picking more pacers there can be a bad call.
In the PBKS vs MI Qualifier, Harpreet Brar was a valuable pick because the pitch suited spinners and he was in rhythm. Ignoring these small details can cost you big in fantasy cricket playoffs.
❌ Mistake 3: Playing with Just One Team
You may have a favorite team or combination in mind—but putting all your hopes on a single team can be risky, especially in high-stakes playoff games.
What to do instead:
Create 2-3 fantasy teams with different strategies:
- One with safe picks
- One with risky differentials
- One balanced team with top all-rounders
This increases your chance of winning something, even if one team doesn’t do well.
❌ Mistake 4: Random Captain & Vice-Captain Choices
Your captain earns 2x points, and your vice-captain earns 1.5x points. That means, together, they can win or lose the entire match for you.
What to do instead:
- Choose captains who bat in the top 3 or bowl 4 overs.
- Don’t go for a low-order batter as captain, no matter how famous they are.
- All-rounders make excellent VC choices.
Example: In PBKS vs MI, choosing Sam Curran as VC worked well because he bowled his full quota and batted in pressure situations.
???? For top captain/VC tips for playoffs:
???? Check This Guide
❌ Mistake 5: Not Checking Toss & Final XI
Yes, we get excited and want to lock our fantasy team early. But if you don’t check the toss and final playing XIs, your team may include players who aren’t even playing!
What to do instead:
- Finalize your team after the toss, not before.
- Wait till you get the confirmed playing 11 from official sources.
- Keep a few backup options ready so you can make last-minute swaps.
Playoff matches often come with surprise changes in the lineup—don’t let that ruin your team.
✅ Bonus Tip: Think Like a Coach, Not a Fan
Fantasy cricket is fun, but if you want to win consistently, treat it like strategy—not emotion. Ask yourself:
- Who’s more likely to perform based on current form?
- Who suits the pitch better?
- Who’s getting enough opportunities to score or take wickets?
Leave your fan feelings aside and pick like a smart analyst.
???? Final Words
The IPL 2025 playoffs are full of excitement, but that also means mistakes can be costly in fantasy cricket. Avoid these 5 mistakes and you’ll already be ahead of thousands of players.
Keep your head cool, follow the form, watch the toss, and plan your captains wisely.
And remember, if you ever feel stuck, you can always check detailed expert match previews here:
???? PBKS vs MI – Fantasy Cricket Blog
Play smart, stay sharp, and may your fantasy points soar in every playoff!