Kolkata Knight riders finally returned to winning ways after registering a convincing 34 runs victory against the Mumbai Indians at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata a couple of days back. However, before that particular match, KKR had lost 6 consecutive matches which have definitely put their chances in jeopardy. They now need to win their remaining two matches to harbour hopes of going through to the final 4. However, they have to depend on other results to make it to the playoffs.
Knight Riders posted 232/2 which is the highest total in the 12th edition of the tournament so far. The foundation was laid by a terrific opening stand between Shubhman Gill and Chris Lynn. Later on, it was Andre Russell again who did a fantastic job for KKR smashing the MI bowlers all around the park. They survived a scare from Mumbai Indians as Hardik Pandya blazed to a sensational knock of 91 in 34 deliveries.
Courtesy their 5th victory, KKR managed to keep their slim chances alive in the tournament. Now there are a few scenarios which might see KKR still make it to the playoffs.
Let us have a look at a few scenarios which might help KKR make the playoffs
KKR will play their remaining two games against the Kings XI Punjab and the Mumbai Indians and they need to play out of their skin to harbour hopes of going through. If KKR manages to win both their remaining games, they would end the league phase on 14 points. There is a possibility that they might end up with the same points with a few teams. If that scenario arises, the team with a superior net run rate will prevail.
In another scenario, if KKR wins their remaining two matches and Sunrisers Hyderabad lose to Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore while Rajasthan beats either Bangalore and Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders still can make it to the playoffs with 14 points without relying on net run rate.
What if Kolkata Knight Riders finish on 12 points
Kolkata Knight Riders can still make it to the playoffs if they win 6 matches. In that case, Mumbai Indians need to lose to Kings XI Punjab and Sunrisers Hyderabad need to lose against Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore. Rajasthan Royals need to lose at least to RCB or DC and CSK have to beat Kings XI Punjab in the final match. In that case, Kolkata Knight Riders will be tied on 12 points. The team with a superior net run rate will go through.