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Punjab Kings (PBKS) suffered a significant setback in their quest for the playoffs following a defeat against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 53rd match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Being asked to bat first, CSK posted a total of 167 for the loss of 9 wickets, aided by Ravindra Jadeja’s knock of 43 off 26 balls and Daryl Mitchell‘s contribution of 30 off 19 balls. In response, PBKS’ batters struggled to chase down the target and could only muster 139 runs, losing 9 wickets in their allotted 20 overs.
Punjab Kings’ position in the points table
After this match, CSK climbed to the third position in the team standings, while PBKS languished to 8th place with 8 points and a concerning net run rate (NRR) of -0.187. Consequently, PBKS found themselves positioned below Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) despite both teams having the same points.
Playoffs qualification scenario for PBKS
To secure a spot in the playoffs, PBKS must ensure victories in all their remaining matches with substantial margins. Although this would elevate their points tally to 14, it will still not guarantee them a playoff berth. PBKS must also rely on favourable outcomes from other teams’ games to finish among the top four in the league stage.
Dependence on other teams
PBKS will hope that CSK, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) win only one of their remaining matches. Additionally, they would prefer Delhi Capitals (DC) not to secure more than two victories.
Moreover, RCB and Gujarat Titans (GT) should suffer a defeat in one of their upcoming fixtures. If these scenarios unfold, CSK, LSG, SRH and PBKS will all get 14 points. The final playoff spots would then be determined by net run rate, making it imperative for PBKS to register comprehensive victories in their remaining games.
Also READ: IPL 2024- Playoffs scenario for Gujarat Titans after loss against Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Upcoming matches of PBKS
PBKS have only three matches left to play, and these fixtures include two away games and one home fixture. Their journey commences on May 9th against RCB in Dharamsala, followed by a clash against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Barsapara Stadium on May 15th. The final league encounter will see them lock horns with SRH on May 19th at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.