IPL playoff scenario: How Punjab Kings can secure 4th spot

Key points

• Punjab Kings have landed in deep trouble heading into their final IPL 2026 league match against Lucknow Super Giants on Saturday, May 23, at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow.
• After beginning their campaign unbeaten in their first seven matches, they have suffered a dramatic slump and are yet to recover from it.
• Having lost six matches in a row, Shreyas Iyer’s men now find themselves in a must-win situation.
• From once sitting comfortably at the top of the table, PBKS have slipped to fifth place with 13 points and a net run rate of +0.227. They are now battling Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Delhi Capitals for the fourth and final playoff spot.
• Read Full Story Despite their disastrous run in the second half of the league stage, PBKS remain in contention for a playoff berth thanks to their outstanding start to...