IPL 2019: Play-offs scenarios for all the eight teams
What's the story
The Indian Premier League 2019 is heading towards its business end as teams are vying for a spot in play-offs. This is a crucial phase as all the eight teams are still in fray to seal a spot. Chennai Super Kings lead the table with 16 points. On the other hand, Rajasthan Royals are placed eighth. Here we look at the possible scenarios.
CSK and DC
Chennai and DC almost certain to make the cut
CSK have 16 points from 11 matches with a net-run-rate of +0.091. Their qualification is almost guaranteed. Another win will assure the side of a place in the play-offs. MS Dhoni's side has played a strong brand of cricket this term. Delhi Capitals are second with 14 points. They are a win away from cementing their spot. DC have a NRR of +0.181.
MI
MI likely to become enter the knock-outs
Mumbai Indians are third on the table and will play four more league matches in 2019. Their healthy NRR of +0.357 is a big positive. MI have two matches against Kolkata Knight Riders and their dominance against them, over the years, points that they are likely to qualify. With 12 points, MI will look to notch two victories to move safely into the play-offs.
SRH
SRH have work to do if they have to qualify
Sunrisers Hyderabad are fourth with 10 points from 10 matches. They have the best NRR (+0.654). Notably, Jonny Bairstow has already played his last match and with David Warner set to return to Australia soon, things could get difficult for SRH. The other players have to step up and make sure that SRH don't lose more than two matches if they have to qualify.
KXIP
KXIP's chances hang by the thread
A defeat against Royal Challengers Bangalore on Wednesday, dampened Kings XI Punjab's fortunes. Ashwin-led KXIP have played 11 matches and bagged 10 points. They face CSK, KKR and SRH in their remaining games. KXIP need at least two wins and see how the other results pan out. Their qualification chances can improve if they defeat KKR and SRH. However, NRR can come into picture.
KKR, RCB
KKR, RCB need big wins to have an outside chance
KKR are on a poor run of form and have lost five consecutive games. They have eight points from 10 games and need to win at least three more by big margins to have an outside chance. They play RR, KXIP and MI (twice). Their chances look bleak. In-form RCB, need to win their remaining three matches to stand an outside chance as well.
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RR in a real spot of bother
RR need to win four out of four to fight for a berth. They will also require the top three teams to beat the other sides. In essence, they need a lot of luck from here on. Rajasthan's campaign looks almost over.