As Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 reaches its final stages, the battle for the second finalist spot intensifies.

Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings will lock horns in Qualifier 2 on Sunday (June 1) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Royal Challengers Bangalore, under Rajat Patidar's leadership, have already secured their place in the final after defeating Punjab in Qualifier 1.

Ahead of this mega clash, former Team India opener Shikhar Dhawan has shared his prediction - and it's raised quite a few eyebrows.

Dhawan Backs Mumbai Indians

Speaking to India Today, Dhawan picked Mumbai Indians as his favorites to win IPL 2025.

'I'm with Mumbai Indians,' Dhawan said. 'The way they've gained momentum is outstanding. They are a very strong and well-balanced team.' The prediction will surprise Punjab Kings fans as Dhawan was once their captain in the cash-rich league.

Dhawan's Time with Punjab Kings

From 2022 to 2024, Dhawan led Punjab Kings in 17 matches. However, under his captaincy, the team managed to win only six games. Injuries also sidelined him during key matches.

Despite the team's inconsistent run, Dhawan was among the top performers. In his three seasons with Punjab, he scored 985 runs at an average of 37.88, often serving as the backbone of the batting lineup.

Now, with Punjab just one win away from the final, Dhawan's choice to back Mumbai adds an intriguing twist to the lead-up to Sunday's clash.

Warner's bold prediction for IPL 2025 winner

Australian batting star David Warner has predicted Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) as the winner of Indian Premier League 2025.

During an interactive session on X (formerly Twitter), a fan asked Warner which team he thinks will lift the trophy. Warner's response was short but clear: "I think RCB and Josh Hazlewood man of the match."