Kolkata: 9 points in 10 games. It is number seven in the table Kolkata Knight Riders (Kolkata Knight Riders). Can Shahrukh Khan-Juhi Chawla’s team still make it to the IPL playoffs? What does the number say?
The figures for the IPL playoffs have accumulated. No team has secured a place yet. Only two teams – Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants – have been eliminated. Both teams have 6 points after playing 11 matches. Each team plays 14 matches in the group stage. Even if Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants win the remaining three matches, they will have 10 points. That won’t open the door to the playoffs.
Delhi Capitals have 8 points in 11 matches. Akshar Patels will finish with 14 points if they win the remaining three matches. Since the 10-team IPL, getting into the playoffs with 14 points has been virtually impossible. Three teams have already reached 14 points after playing 11 matches each. So no matter what is written in the book, there is no hope for Delhi.
Among the remaining 6 teams, the fight for a place among the four teams in the playoffs. KKR’s remaining four matches. If they win those four games, the Knights will finish with 17 points. In that case, getting to the playoffs should not be prevented.
But if KKR loses a match?
In that case, KKR will be stuck with 15 points. Then the fate of Ajinkya Rahane will depend on the hands of other teams. However, if they win their remaining four matches, KKR should not be prevented from reaching the playoffs.
KKR’s remaining matches are against Royal Challengers Bangalore, Gujarat Titans, Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals. The biggest advantage for the Knights is that barring the only RCB match, the remaining three matches are at home. KKR will play against Gujarat Titans, Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals at Eden. In that case, there will be an opportunity to play in the preferred environment, on a pitch like Manak. Although RCB is an away match, the match is in Raipur. Which is huge in the book and pen KohliAlthough it is their second home, they also have to adapt. If KKR wins that match on Wednesday, they will be able to take off a lot of pressure in the remaining three matches KKR.
