Can Chennai Super Kings still qualify if they don’t win IPL match against RCB? Yes, here’s how

But there will be a lot of interest from CSK fans too who will be desperate to see their team return to the playoffs, and possibly play the final scheduled in Chennai. So, can they still go through even if they lose the IPL match against a side on a roll?

For, RCB the equation in the final IPL match is rather clear. They now have 12 points from 13 matches and need a win in the RCB vs CSK IPL match by a certain margin in the last league match at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on May 18 to push their case for a playoff berth.

Can CSK qualify even if they lose?

Yes, as long as the defending champions manage to avoid a heavy defeat against RCB, they will be heading to the playoffs. A win guarantees a spot in the playoff stage for CSK and there is a scenario where they could even be in the top 2 – if RR (on a losing streak already) lose their last match and SRH lose or have a washout in their final match.

But, it won’t be easy against a red-hot RCB, so naturally CSK fans might be wondering worst-case scenarios.

For starters, a washout in IPL match on Saturday in Bengaluru is good news for CSK because they just need one point to qualify for certain.

A washout will keep RCB below them. Otherwise, if CSK lose, they need to make sure the margin of defeat is closer than 17 runs. For instance, if RCB score 200, CSK must score at least 182. If RCB are chasing, CSK must ensure they don’t lose before 18.1 overs. (Rough calculations, could vary slightly based on exact scores). These scenarios will keep CSK’s NRR above RCB.

How RCB can qualify for the playoffs

The win streak has propelled Faf du Plessis side to the sixth place. The RCB vs CSK clash is a must-win match for Bengaluru.

RCB’s NRR is +0.387, while CSK’s is +0.528. A close win will not help RCB’s cause as it will keep them below SRH and CSK, who have a superior NRR.