(Image source from: x.com/SunRisers)

As the IPL 2024 playoffs draw near, the race is heating up. Sunrisers Hyderabad secured their spot in the playoffs after their match against Gujarat Titans was rained out, giving them 15 points. Kolkata Riders and Rajasthan Royals have already qualified, leaving one spot up for grabs. Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants, despite having 14 and 12 points respectively, are unlikely to qualify due to their poor Net Run Rates. The competition is now between Chennai Super Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad for the remaining playoff spots. A win in their final match could potentially push SRH to the second spot. As a result of the rainout, SRH earned one point, climbing to third place while Rajasthan Royals retained their second position in the points table.

The final playoff spot is up for grabs, with RCB and CSK in a virtual knockout. RCB must win and maintain a better Net Run Rate than CSK, who must focus on minimizing defeat to protect their advantage. If their Net Run Rate remains above RCB's, CSK could still clinch the fourth spot even with a loss. Mumbai Indians, already out of the playoffs, will face Lucknow Super Giants. Sunrisers Hyderabad will look to improve their standings against PBKS, while the top two teams, KKR and RR, will face off in the last group game of the season. The RCB- CSK clash will be especially significant as it impacts the playoff race.