IPL 2023 Playoffs Scenarios after GT vs SRH: Sunrisers Eliminated; What LSG, MI, RCB, CSK Need to Do to Qualify

The IPL 2023 season has reached an exciting stage with teams battling it out for the coveted playoff spots. In a recent match, the defending champions Gujarat Titans secured their place in the playoffs and also guaranteed a top-two finish.

Let’s delve into the playoffs scenarios for the remaining teams and analyze what the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Mumbai Indians (MI), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) need to do to qualify.

Gujarat Titans’ Qualification and Top-Two Finish

The Gujarat Titans showcased their dominance in the IPL 2023 season by becoming the first team to qualify for the playoffs. Their recent victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad by 34 runs secured their place in the next stage of the tournament. Additionally, this win also ensured that the Titans finish in the top two positions in the league phase, giving them a favorable position going into the playoffs.

Recap of the GT vs. SRH Match

In the match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, the Gujarat Titans posted a competitive total of 188/9 in their 20 overs. Shubman Gill played a stellar knock, smashing a maiden IPL century and scoring 101 runs off just 58 balls. In response, SRH could only manage 154/9 in their allotted overs, despite a valiant half-century by Heinrich Klaasen. Mohammed Shami and Mohit Sharma starred with the ball for the Titans, claiming four wickets each.

Scenarios for Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

Currently positioned second in the standings with 15 points from 13 matches, CSK has a decent chance of qualifying for the playoffs. Their primary objective is to win their last match against the Delhi Capitals. If they emerge victorious, their place in the playoffs will be confirmed.

However, if they face defeat, their qualification will depend on other results. If either LSG or MI wins their match against each other, they will surpass CSK in the standings. In such a situation, CSK will need RCB and PBKS to not win both their remaining matches.

Scenarios for Mumbai Indians (MI)

The Mumbai Indians find themselves in a favorable position, currently holding the third spot in the table with 14 points from 12 matches. To secure a playoff berth, MI need to win both their remaining matches. If they accomplish this feat, they will secure their place in the playoffs.

However, if they manage to win only one out of the remaining two matches, their qualification will depend on other results. The net run rate also becomes a crucial factor for MI’s chances.

Scenarios for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)

Krunal Pandya-led LSG are placed fourth in the standings with 13 points from 12 games. Their path to the playoffs requires them to win both of their remaining matches.

If they achieve this objective, they will qualify for the playoffs. In case they win only one out of the two matches, their qualification will depend on other results. LSG’s chances also hinge on the performances of other teams in contention.

Scenarios for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)

RCB finds themselves in a slightly precarious situation, currently occupying the fifth spot with 12 points from 12 matches. To qualify for the playoffs, RCB must win both of their remaining matches. Their fate also depends on other results.

The net run rate could play a significant role, as multiple teams might end up with the same number of points. If RCB manages to win only one out of the two matches, their qualification is still mathematically possible, provided LSG defeats MI and MI loses to SRH.

Scenarios for Rajasthan Royals (RR)

Sanju Samson-led RR is placed sixth in the table with 12 points from 13 matches. Their last match against Punjab Kings becomes crucial for their qualification chances. To have any hope of qualifying, RR must win this match.

However, even after a victory, their qualification will depend on other results and the net run rates of other teams. If RR loses, they will be knocked out of contention, while a win will require MI or LSG, and RCB to lose both their remaining matches, making the net run rate the deciding factor.

Scenarios for Punjab Kings (PBKS)

PBKS finds themselves in a challenging situation, placed eighth in the standings with 12 points from 12 matches. To qualify for the playoffs, PBKS needs to win both of their remaining matches.

However, their unfavorable net run rate makes it highly unlikely for them to progress to the next stage. PBKS will need other results to go their way, which adds to the complexity of their playoff chances.

Playoff Chances for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), SRH, and Delhi Capitals (DC)

Unfortunately, Kolkata Knight Riders, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Delhi Capitals have been eliminated from playoff contention. Their chances of qualifying have diminished, and they are now left to play for pride in their remaining matches.