Here’s how Bangalore, Delhi, Punjab, Kolkata, Hyderabad can qualify for the playoffs

The league stage matches of the Indian T20 League 2022 are coming to a close as we are approaching the business end of the 15^th edition of the tournament. As of now, only one team, i.e., Gujarat have officially qualified for the playoffs.

In 13 matches, they have managed to secure 10 wins and thus have 20 points to their name. Two of the most successful teams, Chennai and Mumbai are knocked out of the tournament. However, all the other teams are still in contention of making a top-four finish.

Teams such as Rajasthan and Lucknow are sitting at number two and three respectively. Both have almost sealed their position on the points table. Both have 16 points each but still, need to win one more game to confirm their playoff spot. Though they can still reach the playoffs with 16 points unless they lost their last game by a big margin and if Bangalore defeat Gujarat by a huge margin.

As of now, it seems like Gujarat, Lucknow, and Rajasthan will reach the playoffs but major fight will be for the last spot. As many as five teams are still in contention for sealing that fourth spot. Here’s a look at how these five teams can qualify for the playoffs.

1. Bangalore

Bangalore currently has 7 wins in 13 matches, boasting of 14 points. However, they have a very poor net run rate of (-0.323). To reach the playoffs, Bangalore need to ensure that they beat Gujarat by a big margin and whoever wins the match between Punjab and Delhi lose their last game of the league stage.

2. Delhi

Delhi have 12 points to their name with 6 wins in 12 matches. They have two games left and have a great net run rate of +0.210. Delhi should reach the playoffs if they manage to win their both their next two games by a good margin.

3. Punjab

Punjab too have 6 wins in 12 matches and have a positive net run rate. Punjab will qualify if they win their remaining matches against Delhi and Hyderabad. Besides, they need to make sure they have a better net run rate than Bangalore if Bangalore beat Gujarat in their last match.

4. Kolkata and Hyderabad:

Both Kolkata and Hyderabad can’t reach 16 points. The maximum they can reach from here is 14 points. Both of them need to ensure they win their remaining games and pray that none of their other three teams get 16 points at the end of the league stage. If that happens, then the spot will be decided on the basis of net run rate.