IPL 2023 playoffs scenarios explained: CSK, GT battle for top spot; what are KKR, RR, RCB, PBKS’ chances?
MS Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings (CSK) thrashed Delhi Capitals (DC) by 27 runs to secure the second spot in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 on Wednesday.
An all-round effort from the four-time champions paved the way for Dhoni and Co. to extend their unbeaten run against DC in the cash-rich league at Chepauk. Crucial cameos from Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja sealed CSK’s comfortable win at home. Dhoni and Co. are placed second on the IPL 2023 points table with seven wins and four defeats.
Defending champions Gujarat Titans (GT) are now a point ahead of CSK following Delhi Capitals’ defeat at the hands of the Yellow Brigade. CSK are followed by Mumbai Indians (MI), who are placed third in the IPL 2023 standings. The fourth and final playoff spot is being occupied by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Following their defeat to CSK, Warner’s DC side can only draw 14 points in the league stage this season. Thus, Delhi Capitals are unlikely to make it to the playoffs in the IPL 2023.
Dhoni’s CSK all set to punch playoffs tickets
Dhoni’s CSK only need to win a single game to enter the business end of the competition. CSK will meet Kolkata Knight Riders in the 61st match of the IPL 2023 at MA Chidambaram Stadium on Sunday. CSK will travel to Delhi for their final league game of the season against DC at Arun Jaitley Stadium on May 20. Dhoni’s men are tipped to secure a top-two finish in the 2023 season of the elite tournament.
How KKR and RR can enter IPL 2023 playoffs
On Thursday, former champions Rajasthan Royals (RR) will meet two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders in match No.56 of the IPL 2023 Eden Gardens. Last year’s runners-up have suffered defeats in five of their last six games this season. The losing team in RR versus KKR match is expected to finish the league stage with a maximum of 14 points. This also means that the losing team will have to rely on other results which should go in their favour.
RR, KKR, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) have all picked up 10 points from 11 matches this season. Rajasthan Royals (+0.388) have a much better Net Run Rate (NRR) than KKR (-0.079), RCB (-0.345) and PBKS (-0.441) after 11 games this season. While RR have a better NRR, KKR will get to play their last two league games at home. RCB will have a home advantage only in the final league match against GT on May 21.