Indian Premier League 2019 Playoffs scenario after KKR vs RR: What does each team need to qualify?

Chennai Super Kings had all but qualified for the Playoffs of IPL 2019 about ten days ago. Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bangalore, on the other hand, were on the verge of being eliminated.

But things changed. Chennai lost two matches, conceding the top spot to Delhi Capitals, albeit temporarily, before reclaiming. At the bottom of the table, Bangalore and Rajasthan have now caught up with Kolkata Knight Riders – who have now lost 6 matches on the trot.

This is what the points table looks at this stage.

Team	M	W	L	NR	Pts	NRR
Chennai Super Kings	11	8	3	0	16	+0.091
Delhi Capitals	11	7	4	0	14	+0.181
Mumbai Indians	10	6	4	0	12	+0.357
Sunrisers Hyderabad	10	5	5	0	10	+0.654
Kings XI Punjab	11	5	6	0	10	-0.117
Kolkata Knight Riders	11	4	7	0	8	-0.050
Rajasthan Royals	11	4	7	0	8	-0.390
Royal Challengers Bangalore	11	4	7	0	8	-0.683

Here is what the eight teams need to do from here to qualify for the Playoffs.

Chennai Super Kings: Whatever happens at this stage, Chennai will stay clear of Kolkata, Rajasthan, and Bangalore. Even if they do not win a single match, Chennai will still qualify even if they lose all 3 matches unless Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Punjab all get 16 or more and outdo Chennai in net run rate. And if Chennai win a match they are through.

Delhi Capitals: Two wins will see Delhi through. One win should do the same, but in that case they will have to count on other matches.

Mumbai Indians: With 2 points behind Delhi and one match in hand, Mumbai are basically on the same boat. They need to win 3 of their 4 matches to ensure qualification, while 2 wins should ideally do it.

Sunrisers Hyderabad: Four matches, four wins will do it. One fewer should do it as well, but for some low-probability combination. Their excellent net run rate should help their cause.

Kings XI Punjab: Three matches, three wins, and hope for no mishap in matches involving others.

Kolkata Knight Riders: Even three wins in three matches won’t guarantee a spot. They also have to bank on at least two in the top five to stay on 14 points or fewer.

Rajasthan Royals: Same as Kolkata. One defeat will derail then, but all three wins may not sufficient either.

Royal Challengers Bangalore: Same as Kolkata and Rajasthan. To make things worse, they have the worst net run rate in the tournament.