CSK qualification scenario: How can CSK qualify for IPL 2024 playoffs? NRR to give Chennai an edge?

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CSK defeated Rajasthan Royals (RR) by five wickets on Sunday to keep their IPL 2024 playoffs hopes alive. They now just need a win against RCB on May 18 to qualify. But can CSK qualify if they lose against RCB? Let's find out.

Third-placed CSK have 14 points from 14 matches, while fifth-placed RCB have 12 points from 13 matches. Fifth-placed Delhi Capitals, and sixth-placed Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) also have 12 points each. However, unlike CSK, RCB and DC, LSG are left with two league stage games.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are in fourth spot with 14 points in 12 matches. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) jumped to third spot after beating Rajasthan Royals (RR) by five wickets on Super Sunday. The easiest route for them to qualify for the IPL 2024 playoffs is to beat RCB in their last league stage fixture.

In that case RCB would end their campaign four points behind CSK. DC also will finish two points behind CSK even if they beat LSG in their last league match on Tuesday. LSG can also get 16 points by winning their remaining two games but their NRR is an ugly -0.769.

Will CSK qualify for IPL 2024 playoffs if they lose to RCB?

Yes. CSK can qualify for the playoffs despite losing against RCB, but their fate will not be in their own hands in that case. They will have to hope for one of SRH and LSG to stay below 16 points.

Also, CSK's margin of defeat against RCB should be a narrow one. Notably, RCB will have a better NRR than CSK if they beat them by 18 runs, or win with roughly 11 balls to spare while chasing.

Can CSK and RCB qualify together for IPL 2024 playoffs?

If both SRH and LSG stay on 14 or fewer points, then it is possible for both CSK and RCB to qualify for IPL 2024 playoffs with 14 points each.