RCB's Path to IPL Playoffs: A Match-by-Match Breakdown

After a decisive victory against the Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru are eyeing a spot in the IPL playoffs. Led by Virat Kohli’s stellar performance, RCB’s win not only boosted their NRR but also kept their playoff hopes alive.

RCB's captain Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli celebrate the wicket of Punjab Kings’ Liam Livingstone during an Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 T20 cricket match between Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, at HPCA Stadium, in Dharamshala, Thursday, May 9, 2024.

However, securing wins in their remaining two matches won’t be enough. RCB currently sits seventh in the standings with 10 points from 12 games and needs other results to fall in their favor.

Here’s a breakdown of what needs to happen for RCB to qualify for the IPL playoffs:

RCB must win their remaining two matches to reach 14 points.

Results of other matches must align:

• Gujarat Titans vs Chennai Super Kings: GT needs to win to keep CSK’s points at 12.

• Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals: CSK must lose to RR to stay at 12 points.

• Delhi Capitals vs Lucknow Super Giants: The winning team will reach 14 points, but RCB needs them to lose their final game.

• Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Gujarat Titans: RCB hopes for an upset by Gujarat to keep SRH at 14 points.

• Mumbai Indians vs Lucknow Super Giants: RCB needs Mumbai to win.

• Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings: RCB hopes for a Punjab win to disrupt SRH’s standing.

• Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Chennai Super Kings: RCB must win to reach 14 points.

While some matches may have little impact on RCB’s fate, every result matters in their quest for a playoff berth. If RCB makes it to the playoffs, the final match against Kolkata Knight Riders will determine their opponent in the playoffs.