A thrilling atmosphere enveloped the Eden Gardens as 32,000 fans eagerly awaited the fate of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) during their last home match of the IPL 2026 season. Hopes ran high for a play-off spot, but early reality set in as the match against Delhi Capitals unfolded. Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals secured their position in the playoffs by defeating the struggling Mumbai Indians by 30 runs earlier in the day.
Play-Off Schedule and Teams
The IPL play-offs are set, with champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru facing the Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1 on May 26 at Dharamsala. The Rajasthan Royals will meet Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Eliminator on May 27 in New Chandigarh.
Important Dates
- Qualifier 1: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs. Gujarat Titans – May 26, Dharamsala
- Eliminator: Rajasthan Royals vs. Sunrisers Hyderabad – May 27, New Chandigarh
- Qualifier 2: Loser of Qualifier 1 vs. Winner of Eliminator – May 29, New Chandigarh
- Final: Winner of Qualifier 1 vs. Winner of Qualifier 2 – May 31, Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
Current Standings
As the league phase concluded, three teams vied for the final play-off spot: Rajasthan Royals (14 points), Punjab Kings (15 points), and KKR (13 points). Rajasthan Royals excelled at the Wankhede Stadium, boosting their total to 16 points. This victory confirmed their advancement to the play-offs, eliminating KKR and Punjab Kings from contention.
The stakes were high for KKR fans, but the team’s fate was sealed early, showcasing the unpredictable nature of the tournament. As the playoffs approach, excitement grows for the matchups that lie ahead.
