IPL 2026 playoffs scenarios: What RR, PBKS and KKR need to do on the decisive final league day to qualify

It's an epic three-way battle for the fourth and final IPL qualification spot, and Punjab Kings have tightened grip after a win on Saturday, and the Sunday doubleheader would decide which team would qualify for the next round. Check out all the playoff qualification scenarios.

KKR, RR and PBKS are in a three-way tussle in the final league-stage showdown in IPL 2026. Image: Reuters

FirstCricket Staff|May 24, 2026, 09:19:30 IST

The 2026 Indian Premier League enters its final league-stage day, with three franchises already securing playoff spots, while the battle for the fourth remains wide open, with three teams still on the hunt.

This year's race to the playoffs has been gripping, as teams like the Kolkata Knight Riders, Punjab Kings and the Rajasthan Royals are still in contention for the fourth spot.

Punjab Kings tighten grip in playoff race

On Saturday, the Punjab Kings strengthened their case after securing a seven-wicket win over the Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Cricket Stadium. Prabhsimran Singh struck a valiant 69, and skipper Shreyas Iyer's maiden IPL hundred powered PBKS towards victory with 12 balls to spare, lifting their net run rate.

Check out remaining teams' qualification scenarios

Kolkata Knight Riders

PBKS' seven-wicket win on Saturday made KKR's path to qualification even tougher as Punjab secured a high net run rate (0.309) while Kolkata has 0.083. To qualify, the Knight Riders must beat the Delhi Capitals with a massive margin to lift their run-rate to surpass them in the standings.

If Kolkata score 200, they need to win the game by at least 77 runs. If they put up 225, the Knight Riders would have to win the game by 76 runs. A lower score significantly increases the risk.

If DC batted first and scored 180, KKR would have to chase it down in 12-12.4 overs. In case they score 200, Kolkata would have to chase it down in 12.1-12.4 overs.

Rajasthan Royals

Meanwhile, the Rajasthan Royals are currently fifth in the 2026 points table, and a win would strengthen their position. If they defeat MI, they would secure 16 points and seal the final playoff spot.

But if they lose, the qualification battle will go down to the wire, with the outcome hinging on KKR’s clash against DC later in the day.

Sunday's doubleheader promises high drama and will decide which team will join the already-qualified franchises in the playoffs.

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