IPL 2024 Playoff: The Delhi Capitals have turned the entire equation upside down by staging a strong comeback in the IPL playoff race. Rishabh Pant’s team defeated Rajasthan Royals by 20 runs on Tuesday, propelling them to the fifth position in the points table and pushing Lucknow Supergiants, who were strong contenders until a week ago, down to sixth place.
Read also: Tata IPL Points Table 2024: Â Latest Points Table of IPL 2024
Chennai Super Kings in Jeopardy
Not only that but in the new equation, the Chennai Super Kings are also in danger of being ousted from the top-4, adding to the drama of the playoff race.
The Match that Shook the Table
In the 56th match of IPL 2024, Delhi Capitals faced Rajasthan Royals. Delhi scored an impressive 221 runs for 8 wickets, and in response, Rajasthan Royals were restricted to 201, suffering a defeat that ended their advantage on the points table.
Rajasthan Royals’ Stagnation
Although Sanju Samson’s Rajasthan Royals are still in the second position with 16 points, their recent struggles have been evident. After holding the top spot with 16 points on April 27, they have failed to add to their tally even after 10 days, with Kolkata Knight Riders now leading the table with the same number of points.
The Race for the Playoffs
Despite having three matches remaining, Rajasthan Royals‘ path to the playoffs is uncertain. Delhi’s victory has undoubtedly added tension for Lucknow Supergiants, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Chennai Super Kings, who all had 12 points before this result. Now, with Delhi also reaching 12 points, a traffic jam has emerged at that mark, leaving Lucknow Supergiants ranked sixth below Delhi, Chennai third, and Hyderabad fourth.
Chennai’s Precarious Position
The upcoming match between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Lucknow Supergiants on April 8 could further shake up the standings. With heavy rain predicted in Hyderabad, a washout would result in both teams sharing points (1-1). In such a scenario, Sunrisers Hyderabad could claim third place, and Lucknow Supergiants fourth, directly impacting Chennai and Delhi, who would slip to the fifth and sixth positions, respectively.
The Outsiders’ Hopes: IPL 2024 Playoff
While Royal Challengers Bangalore, Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings, and Gujarat Titans each have 8 points, they are not completely out of the playoff race on paper. However, their hopes hinge on improbable scenarios. Mumbai Indians, having played 12 matches, cannot surpass 12 points even if they win their remaining two games. On the other hand, if Bengaluru, Punjab, and Gujarat win their remaining three matches, they can reach 14 points and potentially secure a playoff spot.
As the IPL 2024 season enters its final stretch, the playoff race has taken an unexpected turn, with Delhi Capitals emerging as a formidable force and the once-dominant Rajasthan Royals facing an uphill battle to secure their spot.
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