The eleventh edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) has reached the mid-way stage with the April leg done and dusted.
We now have a fair idea about the three certain teams who would make it through to the qualifiers.
It may be assumed the teams such, as Kings XI Punjab, Chennai Super Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad would make it through to the playoffs. Until and unless something drastic occurs in the tournament at the business end.
It means only one spot is up for the grabs for teams locked in the middle. The sides look likely to make the fourth spot are Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals and perhaps Mumbai Indians.
Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata Knight Riders have won four out of the eight games they played thus far with eight points in their bag.
They are currently placed fourth on the points table. Therefore, they are favourites to remain at their place by the end of the group stage.
Conditions of Qualification
It can be accomplished by winning at least four out of their six upcoming games in the league stage.
Which means, by the end of it, Kolkata Knight Riders would end up with 16 points by the end of 14 matches.
Kolkata Knight Riders need to win five out of their six matches for a confirmed spot in the playoffs. That is, to not depend on a net run-rate situation or the results of other teams.
If we look at KKR’s upcoming assignments, they play a couple of home matches. (Against Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings).
Therefore, it becomes a matter of utmost importance that the Knight Riders win both their home ties in order to progress to the Playoffs.
Next, if we look at KKR’s away games, the Knights have their task cut out to defeat Sunrisers at Hyderabad, which looks like an ordeal at this point in time.
Therefore, KKR would now have to look at defeating Mumbai Indians both home and away. Additionally, KKR must beat Kings XI Punjab at the belter at Indore.