With the IPL 2026 league stage entering its final stretch, the race for the last playoff berth has become a nail-biting five-way battle.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Titans, and Sunrisers Hyderabad have already sealed their places in the top four, leaving just one spot up for grabs. Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Chennai Super Kings are the five teams still chasing that lone remaining berth through the final week of league fixtures.
Punjab Kings sit in the best position among the five contenders with 13 points, while Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, and Chennai Super Kings are all on 12. Kolkata Knight Riders trail on 11.
For Rajasthan Royals, winning both their remaining matches against LSG and MI would put them into the final four ahead of all other contenders. Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings must win their sole remaining game against Gujarat Titans and also rely on PBKS, RR, DC, and KKR to drop points.
Delhi Capitals have one match left, and even a win requires other teams including PBKS, CSK, RR, and KKR to lose their remaining games.
With seven matches still remaining in the league phase, Net Run Rate could ultimately prove decisive in what promises to be one of the most dramatic finales in IPL history.
