IPL 2018 playoffs scenario: One spot, three teams and two matches left to unveil the fate

The league stage of the ongoing eleventh edition of the Indian Premier League could not have ended in a more thrilling manner. Despite only two games left in the league, as many as three teams are still in hunt for one playoff spot that is up for grabs. Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings were the first two teams to make it to the playoffs. On Saturday, Kolkata Knight Riders beat Sunrisers Hyderabad by 5 wickets to make it to the playoffs. On the same day, Rajasthan Royals got the better of Royal Challengers Bangalore by 30 runs to remain in contention and dump Virat Kohli’s side out of the tournament.

The last day of the league phase has a doubleheader Sunday. And each games has a lot at stake as fate of three teams will be decided.

So, here are the possible playoffs qualification scenario for the remaining one spot:

Mumbai Indians:

The defending champions have the luxury of a good net run-rate. As such, only a win over Delhi Daredevils will send Mumbai directly into the playoffs.

Kings XI Punjab:

For Kings XI, the equation is quite complicated as a mere win won’t take them to the playoffs. They were among the formidable teams in IPL 2018 with a clear chance of making it to the playoffs after five victories in seven matches. However, since returning from a week-long break on May 4, they lost four matches on the trot with just a solitary win against Rajasthan. And now their fate is not in their hands.

Even if Delhi beat Mumbai, it won’t assure a playoff spot for them. They also have to beat Chennai Super Kings by more than 53 runs or chase any target inside 13.4 overs.

Rajasthan Royals:

The Royals have done their beat by winning their final league game and now should pray that other results go their way. They will qualify if both Mumbai and Kings XI lose. In case, Kings XI win, the Royals would go through if the R Ashwin-led side does not beat Super Kings by 53 runs or chase down the total inside 13.4 overs.