What Rajasthan Royals need to do to reach IPL 2026 playoffs? All scenarios explained

Following the Punjab Kings' latest victory over LSG, the race has become tighter for the Rajasthan Royals as IPL 2026 enters it's final day of league-stage action. Check out how RR can qualify for the playoffs.

Rajasthan Royals will lock horns against the Mumbai Indians in their final league-stage match in IPL 2026. Image: Reuters

FirstCricket Staff|May 24, 2026, 11:34:11 IST

The stakes are high for the Rajasthan Royals as they gear up for their final league-stage match in the 2026 Indian Premier League against the Mumbai Indians on Saturday. With Wankhede Stadium hosting the clash, anticipation is off the charts as the final playoff spot is still up for grabs, with three IPL franchises mathematically in contention.

The final day-drama would be a doubleheader, with RR in action against MI in the afternoon fixture, followed by the Kolkata Knight Riders taking on the Delhi Capitals in the evening.

Meanwhile, Punjab Kings have strengthened their playoff bid after securing a seven-wicket win (with 12 balls to spare) over the Lucknow Super Giants, which pushed them to 15 points and displacing RR from the fourth spot in the standings.

How does RR qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs?

The math is simple for RR's qualification case, as they need to secure a win against MI in their final league-stage game. A win would help them reach 16 points, which would guarantee them the fourth spot and advance to the next round irrespective of any other teams' superior net run rate.

The team that secures the fourth spot will lock horns with the Pat Cummins-led Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Eliminator clash.

What if RR were defeated by MI?

If RR lose to MI, they would be stuck at 14 points, making their qualification chances impossible. The Shreyas Iyer‑led side’s recent triumph has already tightened the race, meaning RR’s only path forward is to beat MI and reclaim their place.

Historically, finishing with 16 points is considered safe for securing a spot in the top four, considering the fierce competition since the IPL expanded to ten teams. Teams finishing the league stage with 14 points often struggle to qualify, as rivals could surpass the tally via NRR.

Rajasthan Royals will rely on key performers such as Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who can exploit Mumbai’s vulnerable bowling attack and set the tone early.

Should the Royals lose, the evening match between KKR and DC will ultimately decide which team takes the final playoff spot.

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