Last season’s IPL winner, Kolkata Knight Riders, lost on Monday at their home ground, Eden Gardens. Gujarat Titans defeated them by 39 runs. This was KKR’s fifth defeat in 8 matches so far this season. Their challenge has now increased. The team is currently at the seventh position on the points table. The race for the playoffs is still open for KKR, but the risk of missing out has definitely grown. Let’s understand how KKR can still qualify for the playoffs.
IPL Points Table: KKR’s Struggle for the Playoffs
Before moving forward, let’s take a look at the IPL points table. Kolkata Knight Riders are at number seven with 6 points from 8 matches. There are only three teams below them — Rajasthan Royals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Chennai Super Kings — all three teams have 4 points each.
At the top, Gujarat Titans are leading with 12 points. Delhi Capitals are at number two with 10 points. RCB, Punjab Kings, and Lucknow Super Giants also have 10 points, but based on net run rate, these teams are ranked third, fourth, and fifth. Mumbai Indians are in sixth place with 8 points.
How Can KKR Reach the Playoffs?
Kolkata Knight Riders still have 6 matches left in the league. Their next match is against Punjab Kings on 26 April. After that, they will face Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and RCB.
If KKR wins all 6 matches, they will earn 12 more points. With a total of 18 points, they can easily qualify for the playoffs.
If they win 5 out of the remaining 6 matches, they will reach 16 points. In this case, their chances of qualifying will still be strong.
But if KKR loses 2 of these matches, they will finish with 14 points. Reaching the playoffs with 14 points will be difficult this season.
Last year, teams reached the playoffs even with 14 points. But this time the competition is tough. Gujarat Titans already have 12 points with 6 matches still to play. Delhi, RCB, Punjab, and Lucknow have 10 points each, and Delhi has 7 matches left. If Delhi wins just 3 more games, they will reach 16 points.
That’s why 14 points might not be enough for KKR this time.