Photo: SPORTZPICSDespite recent results, Kings XI Punjab still remain very much in contention for a top four finish with the possibility of even finishing in the top two in this year’s VIVO Indian Premier League group stage. The Shers have been solid at Mohali this season and that strong home form might end up helping them breach the midfield muddle and get over the line as the IPL group stage heads into its penultimate week. Here are the different ways that KXIP could make it into the top four.
If KXIP win all three games
Winning all three games from here on is the safest and most assured way forward for the Shers. If this is accomplished, they could finish in the top two slots and put themselves in a strong position to win their maiden IPL title as they will get two chances to make the final. If KXIP manage to get three out of three, they will comfortably pull away from the midfield pack and end the group stages with a strong 16 points.
If KXIP win against KKR, CSK but lose to SRH
Losing to Sunrisers Hyderabad but winning the home games against Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings leaves the Shers at 14 points; and they would therefore be at the mercy of results elsewhere going in their favour if they are to qualify. They will hope that either Mumbai Indians or Sunrisers Hyderabad lose more than two games so as to not go beyond KXIP’s points tally. Kings will also need to hope that RCB and RR don’t end up winning all their remaining games. If this happens, two out of SRH, KXIP and MI will go through on net run rate to join CSK and the Delhi Capital in the playoffs.
If KXIP win against KKR, SRH but lose to CSK
In this scenario, the Shers will hope that CSK win all their remaining group stage games and get an unassailable lead on the first position. KKR will also need to do the double over Mumbai Indians. Simultaneously, SRH need to lose one more game from their last four matches but beat Mumbai Indians which will see CSK, DC, KXIP and SRH go through.
If KXIP win against SRH, CSK but lose to KKR
In case this happens, Kings XI will be hoping Mumbai Indians win both their encounters with KKR as well as win their game against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Also, the Shers must hope that the Royal Challengers Bangalore or Rajasthan Royals lose at least one game apiece which will mean KXIP get in a tussle with the SRH on net run rate to join the likes of CSK, MI and DC in the top four.
If Kings XI Punjab lose two of their last three games, then they would mathematically be ruled out of the race for the top four.
What position do you think KXIP will finish this season? Let us know in the comments below.
