How Punjab Kings Can Qualify For IPL 2026 Playoffs
Shreyas Iyer (Image credit: BCCI/IPL) NEW DELHI: The race for the final play-off spot in IPL 2026 is getting more intense with each passing match. Three teams – Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Titans and Sunrisers Hyderabad – have already secured qualification for the playoffs. The battle for the remaining spot is now between Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals.Who among Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals will make it through? The answer will be known soon.With Punjab Kings set to take on the already eliminated Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Saturday, all eyes are now on this crucial encounter.Punjab Kings have started IPL 2026 in dominant fashion under captain Shreyas Iyer – winning six of their first seven matches, with one match ending in a draw. However, their campaign was soon derailed as they slipped badly, suffering six straight defeats and losing momentum towards the end of the tournament.Last season’s runners-up Punjab Kings are now on a six-game winless run and head into their final league game against Lucknow Super Giants under huge pressure.Already out of playoff contention, LSG have nothing to lose and will be looking to end their disappointing campaign on a high while potentially ruining Punjab Kings’ playoff hopes.How Punjab Kings Can Qualify For Playoffs – Scenario ExplainedIf Punjab Kings beat Lucknow Super Giants in their last match of the league stage, they will move into the top four. However, even a win does not guarantee them a place in the playoffs.Punjab Kings, currently on 13 points, will move to 15 with a win over LSG. After that, they will have to rely on results from their next matches.The result of the Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians clash will have a massive impact on Punjab Kings chances. If Rajasthan Royals, who have 14 points, beat Mumbai Indians, they will qualify for the playoffs with 16 points – one more than Punjab Kings. A win for RR would be enough to seal the final playoff spot.If Rajasthan Royals lose to Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings will have to hope for another favorable result in the Kolkata Knight Riders vs Delhi Capitals match. PBKS will want Delhi Capitals to beat KKR and keep both teams below them in the table.
- PUNJAB KINGS can qualify regardless of Net Run Rate if they meet the following three results:
- Punjab Kings defeated Lucknow Super Giants
- Mumbai Indians defeated Rajasthan Royals
- Delhi Capitals defeated Kolkata Knight Riders