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IPL 2026 Points Table: Why RR Are the Only Ones Who Control Their Own Fate in Playoffs Race

MENSXP | May 20, 2026 1:40 PM CST

RR’s victory over LSG in Match 64 of IPL 2026 has kept them in the hunt for the Playoffs with six games left in the league stage. RCB, SRH and GT have already qualified and one spot is left. LSG and MI are out of contention while CSK, PBKS, KKR and DC are also fighting for that last spot. But unlike them, RR have their fate in their own hands.

It’s Straightforward for RR

For RR, the equation is simple, they need to win vs MI in their last game to enter the next round. If they win, other results will not matter because the 2008 winners will be on more points that the other four contenders and nobody can draw level. Should they lose, then they will need KKR and PBKS not to surpass them on points and hope their NRR gets them through if CSK and DC draw level on points.

CSK Have to Watch Out for Many Variables

CSK first of all have to beat GT. Then they must hope RR lose to MI, KKR lose at least one of their two games, PBKS lose to LSG and DC either lose their last match or win but have a lower NRR. Of course, if CSK lose to GT, they are out of the Playoffs race anyway.

PBKS Need to Win and Hope for Other Results

PBKS, who at one points were unbeaten and topping the table, are now 5th with six straight losses. They must beat LSG and hope RR lose to MI and KKR lose at least one game or draw level on points but have a lower NRR. Should they lose to LSG, PBKS will be eliminated as well. Not something anyone imagined a month ago.

Maximum Points for KKR Gives Them an Edge

The advantage for KKR is the extra game in hand. They face MI and then DC. If they win both and RR lose to MI plus PBKS lose to LSG, the three-time champions will be through. If they can boost their NRR above PBKS, they will still go through despite being level on points. But even one loss in their two games sends them home.

DC Need a Lot to Go Their Way

DC have the advantage of playing the very last league game and will probably know their fate by then. They take on KKR whom they have to beat. But they also must hope KKR lose to MI, RR lose to MI and CSK lose to GT. Then they must beat KKR well enough to trump RR on NRR. Also, if CSK beat GT, DC have to beat them in NRR as well. So many stars have to align if the 2020 finalists must enter the top four.