The IPL 2026 playoff battle has entered its final and most dramatic stage. While three teams have already confirmed their places in the knockout rounds, several franchises are still fighting for the last remaining playoff position.
Rajasthan Royals took a major step forward with a crucial win over Lucknow Super Giants, keeping their qualification hopes firmly in their own hands. With only a handful of league matches left, every result is now shaping the final playoff picture.
Cricket fans following the latest standings, qualification scenarios, and match updates can also stay informed through Live Cricket Score during the closing phase of IPL 2026.
IPL 2026 Points Table After Match 65
| Team | Matches | Points | NRR |
|---|---|---|---|
| RCB | 13 | 18 | +1.065 |
| GT | 13 | 16 | +0.400 |
| SRH | 13 | 16 | +0.350 |
| RR | 13 | 14 | +0.083 |
| PBKS | 13 | 13 | +0.227 |
| KKR | 13 | 13 | +0.011 |
| CSK | 13 | 12 | -0.016 |
| DC | 13 | 12 | -0.971 |
Rajasthan Royals Take Control of Their Fate
Rajasthan Royals now control their own destiny after defeating Lucknow Super Giants.
Their final league fixture comes against Mumbai Indians, and a victory there would guarantee playoff qualification with 16 points.
Not only that, Rajasthan could still mathematically challenge for a top-two finish if results elsewhere favour them and they significantly improve their net run-rate.
The Royals have built momentum at the perfect time, and their recent performances have strengthened belief within the squad heading into the final match.
What Happens If Rajasthan Lose?
A defeat against Mumbai Indians would leave Rajasthan stranded on 14 points, opening the door for several other contenders.
In that scenario:
- Punjab Kings could qualify by beating LSG
- Kolkata Knight Riders could move ahead by defeating DC
- Chennai Super Kings would also remain mathematically alive
However, Rajasthan still hold a useful net run-rate advantage over Chennai and Delhi, giving them some protection if teams finish level on points.
Even if the qualification battle comes down to NRR, RR remain in a stronger position than several rivals.
Punjab Kings and KKR Face Must-Win Matches
Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders now face virtual knockout games.
Punjab Kings Remaining Fixture
- Lucknow Super Giants
Kolkata Knight Riders Remaining Fixture
- Delhi Capitals
Both teams currently sit on 13 points and realistically need victories to stay alive.
Punjab currently hold the better net run-rate, meaning KKR may need a larger winning margin if both teams finish on 15 points.
For Kolkata, the equation is simple — lose, and their playoff hopes are effectively over.
Chennai Super Kings Still Fighting
Chennai Super Kings are still mathematically alive but no longer control their own qualification chances.
Their final league game is against:
- Gujarat Titans
A win would take CSK to 14 points and potentially create a complicated net run-rate battle involving Rajasthan Royals and possibly Delhi Capitals.
However, any defeat would officially end Chennai’s IPL 2026 campaign.
The pressure is particularly high for CSK, who are trying to avoid a third consecutive group-stage exit since winning the IPL title in 2023.
Delhi Capitals Need a Miracle
Delhi Capitals remain technically alive, but qualification now appears extremely unlikely.
Delhi’s final match comes against:
- Kolkata Knight Riders
Even if DC win and reach 14 points, their poor net run-rate remains a huge obstacle. Rajasthan Royals currently possess a significantly superior NRR, making it very difficult for Delhi to catch up mathematically.
For Delhi to qualify:
- Mumbai must beat Rajasthan
- Punjab must lose
- Chennai must lose
- Delhi must win heavily against KKR
Even then, qualification remains uncertain.
Battle for Top Two Intensifies
While several teams battle for the final playoff spot, the fight for a top-two finish is also becoming increasingly important.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Titans, and Sunrisers Hyderabad have already secured qualification and are now chasing a direct route to the IPL final through Qualifier 1.
Remaining Key Fixtures
- Gujarat Titans vs Chennai Super Kings
- Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru
If RCB and GT both win, they will finish as the top two teams and meet in Qualifier 1.
However, several other combinations remain possible depending on net run-rate and victory margins.
RCB Still Favourites for Top Spot
Royal Challengers Bengaluru currently sit at the top of the table with 18 points and the best net run-rate among all teams.
A win in their final game would almost certainly confirm them as league leaders heading into the playoffs.
RCB’s consistent batting and improved bowling performances have made them one of the strongest teams in the competition this season.
Gujarat Titans and SRH Eye Top-Two Finish
Gujarat Titans and Sunrisers Hyderabad remain locked in a close race for the second Qualifier 1 position.
Both teams sit on 16 points and still have opportunities to finish inside the top two depending on final results.
Margins of victory could become extremely important over the next few matches.
IPL 2026 Playoff Race Reaching Dramatic Finish
With only a few league matches remaining, IPL 2026 is building toward an intense conclusion.
Rajasthan Royals now hold a major advantage in the race for the final playoff spot, but Punjab Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, Chennai Super Kings, and Delhi Capitals are all still mathematically alive.
At the top, RCB, GT, and SRH continue battling for the crucial top-two positions that offer an easier path to the final.
The next few days promise high-pressure cricket, dramatic qualification twists, and potentially major changes in the standings before the playoff lineup is officially confirmed.
