Ravichandran Ashwin He has shared his IPL 2026 playoff predictions and set the course for a tough qualifier facing Chennai Super Kings after another dramatic turnaround in the points table following Kolkata Knight Riders’ emphatic win over Delhi Capitals.Chasing 143 runs, KKR kept their playoff hopes alive with a dominant victory. Despite the early wickets, Finn Allen and Cameron Green steadied the innings brilliantly, with Allen scoring his maiden IPL century to guide Kolkata to a comfortable win. The result tightened an already crowded playoff race. At the top of the table, Sunrisers Hyderabad remain on top with 14 points from 11 matches, while Punjab Kings are second with 13 points from 10 matches. Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals are third and fourth with 12 points respectively. Gujarat Titans are also firmly in contention with 12 points, although their negative net run rate could become a major concern later in the tournament. Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings are sixth with 10 points from 10 matches and still have work to do to stay alive in the race.
Talking about the playoff battle on his YT channel Ash Ki Baat, Ashwin predicted that SRH and RCB are almost certain to qualify, while Gujarat Titans, Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings are likely to compete for the remaining two spots.“SRH and RCB are confirmed. Between GT, RR and PBKS, the other two playoff spots will be decided,” Ashwin said.The veteran spinner also explained why CSK cannot afford any slip-ups in their remaining fixtures.“For CSK to qualify, they must win the remaining four matches. They cannot leave it to chance. Even with 16 points, qualification will depend on RR losing three out of four, PBKS dropping points and CSK maintaining a strong NRR,” he added.Ashwin emphasized the importance of net run rate and highlighted Chennai’s upcoming matches against Lucknow Supergiants as a potential turning point in their season.“This is where net run rate becomes important. I think if Chennai win both matches against LSG, they will not only qualify, they can go all the way like 2010. Every match here is a blockbuster.”
