IPL Playoffs Scenario: How Punjab Kings Can Secure 4th Place

Punjab Kings are in deep trouble heading into their final league match of IPL 2026 against Lucknow Super Giants on Saturday, May 23 at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. After starting their campaign unbeaten in their first seven games, they suffered a dramatic slump and have yet to recover from it.

He has lost six games in a rowShreyas Iyer’s men now find themselves in a must-win situation. Since sitting comfortably at the top of the standings, PBKS has dropped to fifth place with 13 points and a net +0.227 pace. They are now fighting with Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals for the fourth and final spot in the playoffs.

Despite their disastrous run in the second half of the league stage, PBKS remain in playoff contention thanks to a great start to the season. But how can they fight their way back into the top four?

How can Punjab Kings seal the fourth spot in IPL 2026

Scenario 1: PBKS beat LSG

If Punjab Kings beat Lucknow Super Giants, they will finish with 15 points but their qualification will still not be guaranteed. Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders can still knock them out of the playoffs.

Rajasthan can move ahead with 16 points and deny them a top four spot.

Kolkata can also finish on 15 points. In that case, the team with the higher net speed will advance.

Scenario 2: PBKS loses to LSG

If Punjab Kings lose to Lucknow Super Giants, they will end up on 13 points and out of the competition.

Scenario 3: No result

If Saturday’s clash is called off due to rain or any other reason, Punjab Kings will finish with 14 points. In this scenario, Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals can still knock them out.

Rajasthan and Kolkata can move ahead of them in terms of points.

Delhi can also finish on 14 points, in which case the team with the better net pace will qualify for the playoffs.

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Issued by:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published on:

23 May 2026 09:59 IST

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