The playoff scenario in IPL 2026 has become almost clear after Sunrisers Hyderabad’s win over Chennai Super Kings, with three teams now officially sealing their place in the top four stage of the tournament. Along with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, both Sunrisers Hyderabad and Gujarat Titans have booked their playoff spots, leaving just one position open in a closely contested race. The fight for the fourth and final playoff berth is now between Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Delhi Capitals.

Top 3 teams confirmed for playoffs

Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the top

Royal Challengers Bengaluru continue to dominate the points table with 18 points and an impressive net run rate of +1.065. The team has already qualified for the playoffs and is almost certain to finish in the top two, which would give them a Qualifier 1 advantage. Their final league match is against Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 22.

Gujarat Titans secure playoff berth

Gujarat Titans have also sealed their playoff spot with 16 points and a net run rate of +0.400. However, their position in the top two is still under pressure. They must defeat Chennai Super Kings in their final league match to stay in contention for Qualifier 1.

Sunrisers Hyderabad move to third place

Sunrisers Hyderabad climbed to third position after defeating Chennai Super Kings and now have 16 points from 13 matches. They have already secured their playoff qualification and could still break into the top two if they beat RCB in their final league game.

Fight for the final playoff spot

Punjab Kings under pressure

Punjab Kings sit fourth with 13 points but are struggling after losing six consecutive matches. They must win their remaining game against Lucknow to stay alive in the playoff race.

Rajasthan Royals need a perfect finish

Rajasthan Royals are in fifth place with 12 points and must win both of their remaining matches against Lucknow and Mumbai to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Chennai Super Kings facing elimination risk

Chennai Super Kings suffered a major setback after losing to Hyderabad. With 12 points from 13 matches, their net run rate is also not strong. They must win their final match against Gujarat and depend on other results to stay in contention.

Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals still alive

Kolkata Knight Riders remain in the race with 11 points but must win both of their remaining matches against Mumbai and Delhi. Delhi Capitals have 12 points but a poor net run rate (-0.871). They need a big win over Kolkata and favorable results elsewhere to qualify.

Mumbai and Lucknow eliminated

Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants are already out of playoff contention with 8 points each.

Orange and Purple Cap leaders

Hyderabad’s Heinrich Klaasen currently leads the Orange Cap race with 555 runs, closely followed by Sai Sudharsan (554) and Shubman Gill (552). On the bowling side, Bhuvneshwar Kumar leads the Purple Cap standings with 24 wickets, while Kagiso Rabada and Anshul Kamboj are close behind.