Chandigarh: The race for the final IPL 2026 playoff berth has gone down to the wire after Punjab Kings kept their hopes alive with an emphatic victory over Lucknow Super Giants on Saturday. Powered by skipper Shreyas Iyer’s unbeaten century, Punjab successfully chased a daunting 197-run target with two overs to spare, throwing the playoff equation wide open ahead of the last day of league action.
With the crucial win, Punjab Kings climbed to 15 points from 14 matches and currently occupy the fourth position in the standings. Their net run rate has also received a healthy boost, placing them in a stronger position compared to their closest challengers.
The result has officially ended Delhi Capitals’ playoff hopes. Even if Delhi register a win in their final outing, they can only finish with 14 points, which is now insufficient to break into the top four.
Rajasthan Royals remain firmly in contention and have the clearest path to qualification. Sitting on 14 points from 13 games, a win in their final league encounter against Mumbai Indians will guarantee them a playoff ticket, regardless of other results. However, a washout or defeat would leave them dependent on other outcomes.
Kolkata Knight Riders are still mathematically alive but face the most complicated route. Currently on 13 points with one match left, they need Rajasthan to lose first. Only then can KKR stay in contention by defeating Delhi Capitals by a substantial margin to leapfrog Punjab Kings on net run rate.
Punjab Kings, meanwhile, have completed their league campaign and must now wait anxiously. Their qualification will depend entirely on Sunday’s results. A Rajasthan defeat combined with Kolkata failing to secure a big enough win would send Punjab through.
As the league stage reaches its climax, three teams remain in contention for just one remaining playoff spot, setting up a tense finish to IPL 2026’s group phase.
