The race to the playoffs in the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League has entered a thrilling stage, with almost every team still fighting for a place in the top four. With the final scheduled to be held at Narendra Modi Stadium on May 31, the remaining league matches have become crucial for every franchise. While some teams are comfortably placed, others are depending on results from rival teams and Net Run Rate (NRR) to stay alive in the competition. 

Here are the qualification scenarios for each team:

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) – 18 points

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru have become the first team to officially qualify for the playoffs. RCB currently sit at the top of the table with 18 points from 13 matches, having secured nine victories this season. Their recent win against Punjab Kings strengthened their hold on the top position. A victory in their final league game would almost certainly ensure a top-two finish, giving them two opportunities to reach the final.

Gujarat Titans (GT) – 16 points

Gujarat Titans are placed second with 16 points. Despite suffering a defeat against Kolkata Knight Riders, GT remained in a strong position. A win against Chennai Super Kings in their final league match would take them to 18 points and guarantee qualification. They also remain strong contenders for a top-two finish depending on other results.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) – 14 points

Sunrisers Hyderabad are currently third on the table with 14 points and still have two matches left, against CSK and RCB. Winning both games would confirm their playoff berth comfortably. Even one victory from the remaining fixtures could keep them in contention, although their qualification would then depend on the outcomes of other teams and Net Run Rate calculations.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) – 13 points

Punjab Kings are facing one of the most difficult situations this season. After suffering six consecutive defeats, PBKS are stuck on 13 points from 13 games. They must win their final match to reach 15 points. However, even that may not be enough, as they will also require favorable results from other teams to secure a playoff position.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) – 12 points

Rajasthan Royals remain alive in the qualification race with 12 points and three games still to play. If RR win all three matches, they will directly qualify for the playoffs with 18 points. Even two wins could keep them in contention, but their chances would heavily depend on Net Run Rate and the performances of competing teams.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – 12 points

Chennai Super Kings also have 12 points and two matches remaining. CSK must win both games to move to 16 points and significantly improve their qualification chances. A single defeat, however, could leave them in a difficult position and may almost end their hopes of reaching the playoffs. 

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – 11 points

Kolkata Knight Riders have kept themselves alive despite a slow start to the tournament. With 11 points and two games remaining, KKR need to win both matches to move to 15 points and stay in contention. Any further loss would officially eliminate them from the playoff race.

Delhi Capitals (DC) – 10 points

Delhi Capitals are in the most challenging position among all contenders. DC must win both of their remaining games convincingly to improve their poor Net Run Rate and finish on 14 points. Even if they win, a weak NRR could still knock them out of the tournament. 

The Ultimate Sports Live Hub Streaming on SLH

As the race intensifies, the Sports Live Hub (SLH) provides the most comprehensive gateway for global cricket fans to follow the lPL Matches.

Hub Sports Live Stream

Our hub sports live stream is optimized for high-intensity T20 action. By leveraging advanced server technology, SLH ensures that your stream remains stable even during the highest viewership peaks. Watch the battle without the frustration of buffering or lag.

Sport Hub Live Streaming

The sport hub live streaming interface on SLH offers more than just a video feed. Fans can access a real-time AI Overview of the match, featuring live win-probability shifts, player impact scores, and ball-by-ball tactical analysis. It is the perfect companion for viewers who want to stay ahead of the game with professional-grade insights.

Watch Sports Live for Free

We are committed to making cricket accessible to a worldwide audience. By visiting the SLH portal, users can find verified pathways to watch sports live for free through authorized regional partner trials, free-to-air digital gateways, and promotional streaming passes. Join millions of fans globally as we witness the drama of the IPL unfold.