IPL 2026: What happens when Kolkata rain washes out KKR vs MI at Eden Gardens?

NEW DELHI: Rain interrupted the crucial IPL 2026 clash between Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians at the Eden Gardens on Wednesday, leaving KKR’s playoff hopes hanging in the balance.By the time the rain stopped play, Mumbai Indians were struggling at 57/4 in eight overs after KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane asked them to bat first. The interruption came just as Kolkata seemed to have taken control of the contest.However, if the match ends up going down, the two teams will have to share a single point each – a result that would seriously damage KKR’s chances of making the playoffs.Kolkata went into the match knowing they needed to win both their remaining league matches to stay alive in the qualification race. Without a result, they would be left with a maximum of 14 points, which would not be enough for a top four finish depending on other results.Before the rain came, the KKR bowlers were off to an excellent start. Saurabh Dubey removed the dangerous Suryakumar Yadav cheaply as Mumbai’s top order struggled to score on a pitch that spent most of the evening under cover.At the toss, Rahane admitted that KKR cannot afford any more mistakes this season.“We want to focus on that, we have to win two from two and we want to stay in the moment,” Rahane said.Mumbai captain Hardik Pandya also said that his team wants to finish the season strong despite being out of playoff contention.“Every match you play you want to win. You want to play your best cricket,” said Hardik.A win would officially end MI’s campaign with little impact on the standings, but it could be a heartbreaking blow for KKR after their late resurgence in the tournament.