One playoff spot, five teams: How PBKS, RR, CSK, DC and KKR can still qualify in chaotic IPL 2026 finish

The fight for the final IPL 2026 playoff spot is between PBKS, RR, CSK, DC and KKR. RCB, SRH and GT have already qualified for the playoffs.

Updated on: May 19, 2026, 06:19:50 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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Sunrisers Hyderabad became the third team to qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs, defeating Chennai Super Kings by five wickets at the Chepauk on Monday. The result saw SRH get to 16 points in 13 games, joining Gujarat Titans and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the playoffs. With the league phase slowly coming to an end, there is only one more playoff berth left now.

PBKS are currently in fourth position and RR are fifth. (PTI)

SRH's win meant that GT also made it to the playoffs. Punjab Kings are currently fourth with 13 points from 13 matches and need to win their final league match. PBKS are set to face the eliminated Lucknow Super Giants in their final league fixture. A win will take them to 15 points, and it can only be overtaken by Rajasthan Royals, and that is if they clinch victory in their remaining two games.

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CSK, who are at 12 off 13 matches, have to beat GT in their final match and also need PBKS to lose their final game. They also need RR to win one out of their remaining two games, so that the equation comes down to net run rate.

Meanwhile, RR can qualify if they defeat LSG and MI. DC are at 12 points in 13 games and need PBKS to lose against LSG. They also need RR to lose both their games and GT to defeat CSK. If other results go in their favour, DC could get into the playoffs with a win against KKR. It's not mathematically impossible. KKR need PBKS to lose to LSG. If PBKS win, then KKR's qualification will depend on NRR, and they need to get wins against Mumbai Indians and DC. They also need RR to win only one of their remaining two games.

It was an action-packed thriller in Chennai as SRH chased down a target of 181 runs, reaching 181/5 in 19 overs. Kishan's 47-ball 70 was key, as he smacked seven fours and three sixes, also striking at 148.94. He had a dominant partnership with Heinrich Klaasen (47). For CSK, Mukesh Choudhary struck twice. Initially, Pat Cummins' 3/28 and Sakib Hussain's 2/34 restricted CSK to 180/7 in 20 overs. Dewald Brevis registered 44 off 27 balls.

Speaking on SRH's chances ahead of the playoffs, skipper Cummins said, “Yeah, that's it. You can't give yourself a better chance than what we have. So... Got one more game, hopefully gives us a chance for the top two, but either way, we're into the qualifying and the real stuff starts now, so a lot of hard work. Ishan as well, captain for half of it, so he deserves a lot more credit on himself. Yeah, good feeling of this squad.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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