Royal Challengers Bengaluru have officially become the first team to qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs after their win over Punjab Kings, but the battle for the remaining three top-four spots is still wide open.
With only a few league-stage matches left, seven franchises are mathematically alive in the playoff race. Gujarat Titans and Sunrisers Hyderabad are currently in strong positions, while Rajasthan Royals, Chennai Super Kings, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders are still trying to secure qualification.
Current IPL 2026 playoff picture
Royal Challengers Bengaluru are already through to the playoffs and remain contenders for a top-two finish.
Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants have already been eliminated from playoff contention.
Gujarat Titans qualification scenario
Gujarat Titans need just one win from their remaining matches to almost confirm qualification. Even if they lose both games, their strong net run rate keeps them in a favourable position unless multiple results go against them.
Sunrisers Hyderabad qualification scenario
Sunrisers Hyderabad are also well placed in the standings. Two wins would comfortably seal a playoff berth and could even help them challenge for a top-two finish. One win may still be enough because of their healthy net run rate.
Punjab Kings qualification scenario
Punjab Kings are under pressure after losing to RCB. PBKS can now only reach 15 points, meaning they must win their last match and depend on other results. Their qualification hopes may also depend heavily on net run rate.
Rajasthan Royals qualification scenario
Rajasthan Royals remain alive despite losing to Delhi Capitals. RR need victories in their remaining matches to comfortably reach 16 points. Winning only one game could drag them into a tight net run rate battle involving CSK, DC and other contenders.
Chennai Super Kings qualification scenario
Chennai Super Kings still have a path to qualification but likely need to win all their remaining games. They are also dependent on at least one of the teams above them slipping in the closing stages.
Delhi Capitals and KKR playoff hopes
Delhi Capitals kept themselves alive with a win over Rajasthan Royals. DC must win their final game and hope several results go in their favour because they can only reach 14 points.
Kolkata Knight Riders also remain mathematically alive but need to win all remaining matches while hoping rival teams lose points.
The final week of the IPL 2026 league stage is expected to decide one of the closest playoff races in recent seasons, with multiple teams still capable of finishing in the top four.
