The IPL 2026 playoff race has come down to one remaining spot and four teams after Chennai Super Kings suffered an 89-run defeat to Gujarat Titans on Thursday. CSK finished their campaign with 12 points from 14 matches.
Three teams have already secured playoff qualification — Royal Challengers Bengaluru with 18 points from 13 games, GT with 18 points from 14 matches, and Sunrisers Hyderabad with 16 points from 13 games.
The fight for the final playoff berth is now between Rajasthan Royals (14 points), Punjab Kings (13 points), Kolkata Knight Riders (13 points), and Delhi Capitals (12 points). All four sides ideally need victories in their remaining matches to qualify.
There is still a slight chance for Rajasthan Royals to make the playoffs even if they lose their final game against Mumbai Indians on Sunday. For that scenario to happen, RR would need a superior net run rate while also hoping the other contenders lose.
Delhi Capitals must defeat Kolkata Knight Riders by a narrow margin in their final match on Sunday evening for RR to stay in contention despite a defeat.
Gill, Sudharsan and Buttler Star as GT Crush CSK to Boost Top-Two Hopes
Gujarat Titans strengthened their chances of a top-two finish with a dominant 89-run win over Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026. Openers Shubman Gill (64 off 37) and Sai Sudharsan (84 off 53) added a 125-run stand, while Jos Buttler smashed an unbeaten 57 off 27 balls to power GT to 229/4.
In reply, CSK lost four wickets inside the powerplay and were bowled out for 140 in 13.4 overs despite Shivam Dube’s quick 47 off 17 balls. Mohammed Siraj starred with the ball, taking three early wickets, including Sanju Samson off the first ball of the innings.
The defeat knocked CSK out of the playoff race for the third straight season, while GT finished the league stage with 18 points from 14 matches.
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