Finn Allen smashed an unbeaten century as Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) defeated Delhi Capitals (DC) in the 51st match of IPL 2026 to keep their playoff hopes alive. The KKR opener smashed a six to complete his century and take past the winning margin. KKR chased down the target of 143 in only 14.2 overs at the loss of two wickets. Courtesy of their win, KKR fetched two crucial points and they have 9 points at an NRR of -0.169. They are in the seventh spot in the points table, but have their destiny in their hands.
The defeat dented DC’s playoff chances and they are now practically out of IPL 2026. They only have mathematical chances to make it to the playoffs. The Axar Patel-led side has managed 4 wins in 11 matches.
DC have 8 points at an NRR of -1.154. Winning the next three games won’t be enough for DC and they will need plenty of support from other teams. DC can get to a maximum of 14 points.
DC can only qualify for the playoffs if they win their next three games by big margins. Also, they will need the support of other teams too.
How can KKR qualify for playoffs?
After failing to win a fixture in the first six games, KKR have bounced back strongly and they are on a four-match winning run. They have 4 matches left. KKR will finish with 17 points and easily qualify for the playoffs if they win their next 4 matches.
Just one more defeat will mean that they will need support from other teams. Two more defeats now will end their IPL 2026 season.
With 7 wins in 11 matches, Sunrisers Hyderabad top the points table. They have 14 points at an NRR of +0.737. Punjab Kings, who were in the top spot for long, are now second. They have 6 wins and 13 points. With 12 points each, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals sit in the third and fourth spots, respectively.
