Kings XI Punjab had a phenomenal start to their IPL campaign this year when KL Rahul registered the fastest IPL fifty in their first match itself. From then on, KXIP conceded just one loss against RCB and went to register a formidable winning streak of four consecutive wins. With six wins in their first seven matches, KXIP alongside CSK and SRH was cruising towards top-four spots.
However, things took a 180-degree turn for them and their fortunes took a hit. Punjab team has managed to win only one match from their last seven matches. Currently, they are lying on the seventh spot in the points table and they are on the verge of being knocked out from the race to playoffs.
Still, KXIP has a glimmer of hope qualifying if other results go their way. Here are a few scenarios in which they can make it to the top four –
(SRH and CSK are already in the playoffs)
KXIP Qualifying alongside MI
If Mumbai Indians win their game against Delhi Daredevils and Royal Challengers Bangalore lose to Rajasthan Royals then MI will be ahead. Kolkata Knight Riders also have to lose against Sunrisers Hyderabad by a big margin
If then Kings XI Punjab defeats Chennai Super Kings by a big margin, MI and KXIP go through.
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KXIP Qualifying alongside KKR
If Royal Challengers Bangalore lose against Rajasthan Royals and the Mumbai Indians lose their next match to Delhi Daredevils, then both the teams will be left stranded on 12.
Kings XI Punjab will then have to defeat Chennai Super Kings in the last game and make sure that they have better NRR than Rajasthan Royals.
KXIP Qualifying alongside RR/RCB
If Mumbai Indians lose their game against Delhi Daredevils and Kolkata Knight Riders suffer the same fate against Sunrisers Hyderabad then KXIP can qualify by ensuring that they defeat CSK by an NRR better than at least KKR.
In all the conditions though, KXIP will have to ensure that they defeat Chennai Super Kings in their next match. KXIP will be playing the last match of the league round, so they will be aware of what Net run rate they have to maintain.
