IPL 2020 playoffs: A look at the qualification scenarios for each team
The Indian Premier League is being held for the 13th time, while it is currently being played in the United Arab Emirates. It is the third edition of the tournament being played overseas, besides being the second instance of entirely being played abroad. Mumbai Indians are the defending champions.
The 2020 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), being played in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has entered its business-end phase. Nonetheless, no team has yet qualified for the playoffs, as the competition seems to be an open one.
Although former three-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have become the first team to be eliminated, defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) look set to qualify for the playoffs. On the same note, we take a look at the qualification scenario of every team.
Mumbai Indians: MI, who are currently on 14 points, need just two more wins to seal their spot, as the fifth-placed team, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), can only reach a maximum of 16 points.
Delhi Capitals: DC, too, are in a similar situation like MI, as they are also on 14 points. Currently placed second, they are, as well, a couple of wins away from sealing their spot.
Royal Challengers Bangalore: Another team with a similar situation as the above two, who are on 14 points. Don't think this needs to be explained separately.
Kings XI Punjab: KXIP are currently on 12 points and have a couple of games remaining. With the teams above them already on 14 points, they have to win their remainder both for a sure playoffs finish. A loss and a win can make it a dicey affair for them, leaving them to rely on other teams.
Kolkata Knight Riders: KKR have been highly inconsistent this season, as they are in the fifth spot for now, with 12 points from 12 matches, just like KXIP. What is even enjoyable that both the teams play their remaining two games against sides below them. Thus, it is a no-brainer once again that both need to win it all for a sure-shot finish. However, provided the three teams above them perform better, it could come down to the NRR between them.
Rajasthan Royals: RR are currently placed sixth with just 10 points from 12 games. Although a win in their remaining two games would take them to 14 points, win by the teams above them would derail their chances of qualifying.
Sunrisers Hyderabad: SRH are currently on just eight points from 11 matches. Winning the next three games could take them to 14 points, leaving them to rely on the teams above them. However, a loss is sure to knock them out. Overall, their chances of qualification look the slimmest of all.