IPL 2020 playoffs: Qualification scenarios for teams, prior to CSK-KKR clash

Mumbai Indians are the only team who have virtually confirmed their spot for the playoffs this season, as their better net run-rate would allow them to steer through. As for the other sides, besides their results, some additional events need to go their way.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 has already reached its business-end, as the race of playoffs has become even intense. Nonetheless, it is still not sure as to which team has a clear chance to make it through, as we take a look at the possible scenarios for the sides in contention.

Mumbai Indians (MI): While Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are the only team to be eliminated so far, defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) are the side who have more or less sealed their spot. With 16 points, they are sure to finish among top-two, unless they lose their remaining two games by a humungous margin. A win nonetheless would guarantee their spot.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB): The Virat Kohli-led side are on the second spot, with 14 points. A win in the remaining two games would almost seal their place too. However, in case of losing both, they will have to rely on the other sides. The teams below them, losing, would be their only hope.

Delhi Capitals (DC): Placed third with 14 points, they have a battle at hand against RCB, as well as MI. Nonetheless, a win in either one should do it for them, while winning both is a guarantee. However, if they lose both, the net run-rate (NRR) would come into play, and the teams below them would have to keep losing.

Kings XI Punjab (KXIP): Now, they have a situation at hand. Placed fourth with 12 points, KXIP need to win both their remaining matches for a reasonably good chance to qualify. However, if they lose one, they might edge past the current fifth-placed team on a better NRR.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR): And, they are the current fifth-placed team, with 12 points, while they lag on NRR. As of now, their only realistic chance is to win the remaining two games and finish on 16 points. Besides, they would also wish that the other teams don't attain more than 16. Again, win by a more significant margin would allow them to better their NRR. However, if they lose on Thursday against CSK, and win their final tie, they will have to rely on the other teams.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH): The sixth-placed team in the table, with 10 points, SRH's only option is to win their remaining two games, besides hoping that the sides above them don't attain more than 14. In case that happens, with a better NRR, SRH can surely qualify. However, a loss would end their campaign.

Rajasthan Royals (RR): The seventh-placed team, RR have a similar equation at hand like SRH, as both are on 10 points. Not just win, but they will have to do it by a reasonable margin, besides hoping that KXIP, KKR and SRH don't win their remaining matches. Phew!