IPL 2023: Here’s how Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) can qualify for playoffs

Rajasthan Royals vs Royal Challengers Bangalore. (Photo Source: IPL)

Royal Challengers Bangalore will take on Sunrisers Hyderabad in match 65 of IPL 2023 on Thursday, May 18 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad. Sunrisers are coming into the fixture having lost their previous encounter against Gujarat Titans by 34 runs while Royal Challengers Bangalore are coming into it after thumping Rajasthan Royals.

RCB’s bowlers put on a sensational performance against RR as they bundled them out for just 59 while RR were chasing a target of 172. As a result, RCB registered a massive win by 112 runs and made their chances to reach the playoffs more realistic.

The Faf du Plessis-led side are fifth on the IPL points table having 12 points to their name with six wins from 12 matches. With two matches remaining in the league stage for them, RCB have their fate in their own hands as a win in both matches will seal their spot in the playoffs.

Punjab Kings’ loss against Delhi Capitals has benefitted them massively as they now only face competition from Mumbai Indians who can also finish the league stage with 16 points like RCB. The three-time runner-ups also have a better net run-rate than the five-time champions making their path even easier.

However, if RCB end up losing one of their remaining games, then RR, Kolkata and Punjab also will remain in contention for the playoffs. In such a scenario, RCB will have to keep their net run rate in check which is currently better than all the teams mentioned above.

Hence, if RCB lose one of their remaining fixtures and finish with 14 points, they will have to hope that MI also lose their last game and all of RR, KKR, PBKS and MI end up with a poorer net run rate than them.

On the other hand, SRH are already knocked out of the tournament as they’re ranked last (tenth) on the points table with four wins from 12 matches. Having no chance of qualifying whatsoever, SRH will be eager to spoil RCB’s party and make their road to the playoffs tougher.