IPL 2026 Qualification Scenarios: PBKS pray for MI, DC wins; KKR need big win
IPL 2026 Qualification Scenarios: PBKS pray for MI, DC wins; KKR need big win
There's plenty to play for on the final double-header day of IPL 2026, with PBKS, RR, and KKR still in the hunt for the final playoffs spot. PBKS' dominant win over LSG on Saturday also meant that DC have been officially eliminated.
Here's what the three teams need to finish in the top four.
Points table after match #68 - LSG vs PBKS
| Team | Mat | Won | Lost | NR | Points | NRR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RCB (Q) | 14 | 9 | 5 | 0 | 18 | 0.783 |
| GT (Q) | 14 | 9 | 5 | 0 | 18 | 0.695 |
| SRH (Q) | 14 | 9 | 5 | 0 | 18 | 0.524 |
| PBKS | 14 | 7 | 6 | 1 | 15 | 0.309 |
| RR | 13 | 7 | 6 | 0 | 14 | 0.083 |
| KKR | 13 | 6 | 6 | 1 | 13 | 0.011 |
| CSK (E) | 14 | 6 | 8 | 0 | 12 | -0.345 |
| DC (E) | 13 | 6 | 7 | 0 | 12 | -0.871 |
| MI (E) | 13 | 4 | 9 | 0 | 8 | -0.510 |
| LSG (E) | 14 | 4 | 10 | 0 | 8 | -0.740 |
All NRR calculations here have been based on a first-innings score of 200.
Rajasthan Royals
vs MI, Wankhede, May 24
- A win for RR in their last league fixture on Sunday will seal them a playoff spot.
- They will be eliminated if they lose tomorrow, or if the game is abandoned.
Punjab Kings
PBKS can make it without depending on NRR if the following results go their way:
- MI beat RR
- DC beat KKR
Kolkata Knight Riders
vs DC, Kolkata, May 24
Assuming MI beat RR, for KKR to go past PBKS in case of a 15-point tie, they would need to:
- Win by at least 77 runs.
- Chase down the target in 12.1 overs or fewer.
- KKR can take up to 12.4 overs in the latter case, if they hit a six once the scores are tied.
If none of these scenarios are met, PBKS will go through (assuming MI beats RR).
