The Indian Premier League is seeing a lot of drama as the preliminary rounds are coming to an end. With only Mumbai Indians (MI) qualifying and ensured a top-two finish, three spots remain for grab with four teams fighting for it.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Kings XI Punjab are out of the playoff race.
So what do the four teams need to make it to the top 4?
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
RCB are currently sitting on the second spot and face third-placed Delhi Capitals (DC). If they win, they can guarantee a second-place finish.
However, if RCB loses, they will need Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to lose its final match against MI since they have a better net run-rate than the Bangalore franchise.
If SRH wins, 14 points may be enough for RCB to go through as the fourth-placed team.
Delhi Capitals (DC)
As for the team which were considered as title-contenders, DC are coming back after four successive defeats. DC face a similar scenario as RCB due to its poor net run-rate.
As for DC, it needs to beat RCB to finish in the top four. If DC loses the game, it will need SRH to lose its final match.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
A lot of things depends on SRH. They can confirm their qualification with a win over MI in its final game.
However, if they lose, it will be out of the tournament.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
KKR just came after a 60-run win against RR and kept their playoff hopes hinge on Sunrisers Hyderabad.
If SRH loses their final game, they make it to the top 4. In case if SRH win, it will be a three-way tie for the fourth position.
