The race for the IPL 2026 playoffs has tightened dramatically, with five franchises now effectively battling for a single remaining berth. Sunrisers Hyderabad produced a controlled chase against Chennai Super Kings, winning by five wickets after reaching a target of 181 in 19 overs. The result pushed SRH to 16 points, which guarantees them a place in the playoffs.
Who has already booked their spot
- Sunrisers Hyderabad reached 16 points and are assured of qualifying after beating Chennai Super Kings by five wickets.
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru are also through, sitting on 18 points from 13 matches.
- Gujarat Titans have qualified as well, with only one other side able to reach 16 points in the remaining schedule.
Teams still alive in the race
- Mumbai Indians are out of the playoffs contention, along with Lucknow Super Giants.
- Punjab Kings have 13 points from 13 games and have one match left.
- Chennai Super Kings are on 12 points from 13 matches and have one match remaining.
- Delhi Capitals also have 12 points from 13 matches and are down to their final fixture.
What the remaining permutations mean
- Rajasthan Royals, on 12 points from 12 matches, are the only team outside the current leading group that can still climb to 16 points.
- Kolkata Knight Riders have 11 points from 12 matches and still have two matches to play, but their highest possible total is 15 points.
With only one spot left beyond the three confirmed qualifiers, the remaining contenders now require a win in their final game(s) and then rely on other results to fall in their favour.
