Chennai Super Kings pulled off a tense two-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens on May 8 and it couldn’t have come at a worse time for KKR. With the playoffs just around the corner, this loss has really hurt their chances of making it through. For CSK, it was only their third win of the season, but it might just be the one that shakes up the playoff race.
KKR’s dream of sneaking into the top four has hit a snag. Sitting on 11 points from 12 games, they’ve also seen their net run rate take a hit after that loss to CSK, putting them even further behind teams like Delhi Capitals. With just two games left, they’ve got a steep climb ahead—win both, and then cross their fingers for other results to fall their way if they’re going to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Chennai Super Kings are still anchored at the bottom with just 3 wins from 12 games. Even though they can’t make the playoffs now, that win must have lifted their spirits after what’s been their toughest IPL season in years.
At the top, Gujarat Titans sit first with 16 points and a strong net run rate of +0.753 from 12 matches. Right behind them are Royal Challengers Bengaluru on 16 points too, but with one game in hand and an NRR of +0.482. Punjab Kings hold third with 15 points from 11 games and an NRR of +0.376, keeping the race for the top spots exciting.
Mumbai Indians are holding onto fourth place with 14 points and the best net run rate in the league at +1.156, so they’ve got to keep their form going without any slips. Right behind them, Delhi Capitals sit fifth on 13 points from 11 games and an NRR of +0.362, so they’re still very much in the hunt for a playoff spot.
