IPL 2026 Playoffs Race: KKR Alive, CSK in Do-or-Die Clash

Kolkata Knight Riders kept their IPL 2026 playoffs dream alive with a four-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians at Eden Gardens on Wednesday. The win lifted KKR to sixth on the points table, level with Punjab Kings on six wins from 13 games. PBKS hold the edge due to a superior net run-rate. Three spots in the playoffs have already been claimed by Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Titans, and Sunrisers Hyderabad — leaving just one berth up for grabs.

KKR vs DC: A Clash That Could Decide Everything

KKR’s final league fixture is against Delhi Capitals on Sunday. A win is non-negotiable for them to have any shot at the fourth playoff spot. However, their match could be rendered meaningless if Rajasthan Royals beat Mumbai Indians in the earlier game of the Sunday double-header. A win would take RR to 15 points and book their playoff berth outright.

PBKS and RR: Points, NRR, and High Stakes

Punjab Kings must also win their last match to finish at 15 points. If both PBKS and KKR win, net run-rate becomes the tiebreaker between the two. Rajasthan Royals face the simplest equation — beat MI and qualify. A defeat would leave them vulnerable at 14 points.

Chennai Super Kings face a virtual knockout match against Gujarat Titans on Thursday. A loss ends their campaign, while a win keeps them alive — though they would still depend heavily on other results. Delhi Capitals find themselves in a similar position, needing a win and favourable outcomes elsewhere to sneak into the top four.