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The race for the IPL 2026 playoffs has become even more intense after Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) defeated Delhi Capitals (DC) on May 8 and the points table changed once again. With almost every match now impacting the playoff chances, Ravichandran Ashwin has made a bold prediction about Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) chances.
The former Indian off-spinner has picked the team he feels will finish in the top four of the ongoing IPL 2026 and what Chennai Super Kings should do to stay in the tournament. CSK is currently placed sixth in the table with 10 points from 10 matches.
KKR’s big win over DC makes the IPL 2026 playoff race more dangerous
They still have four games left in the league stage to make the playoffs, but one mistake could end their campaign completely. After KKR’s latest win, the race for the top four spots has become tighter than ever, with many teams still fighting for survival.
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Kolkata Knight Riders kept their playoff hopes alive after an impressive 8-wicket win over Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. After the latest changes, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) remains on top in the points table with 14 points from 11 matches.
Punjab Kings are currently in second place with 13 points from 10 matches. Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rajasthan Royals are at third and fourth positions with 12 points each.
Gujarat Titans are also firmly in fifth position with 12 points, although their poor net run rate could cause problems later on. In such a situation, the path ahead is now very difficult for the sixth-placed Chennai Super Kings.
Ravichandran Ashwin predicts IPL 2026 playoff teams
Talking about the playoff situation, Ashwin believes that SRH and RCB are almost certain to qualify for the playoffs. The cricket pundit further asserted that there could be a straight fight between Gujarat Titans, Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings for the remaining two spots.
“SRH and RCB are confirmed. The other two playoff spots will be decided between GT, RR and PBKS,” Ravichandran Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
Ashwin also warned that Chennai Super Kings cannot afford a single bad game at this level. He believes that if CSK has to keep its playoff dreams alive, it will have to win all the remaining four league matches. The former Indian all-rounder also said that net run rate will become a big factor in deciding the top four teams this season.
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CSK’s fate depends on LSG games: Ashwin
He believes that the five-time IPL champions’ upcoming match against Lucknow Super Giants can completely decide their playoff fate, if CSK manages to win both those matches convincingly, then they can repeat their unforgettable comeback season in 2010.
Ashwin signed off by saying, “For CSK to qualify, they have to win all the remaining four matches. They can’t leave it to chance. Even with 16 points, qualification will depend on RR losing three out of four, PBKS losing points and CSK maintaining a strong NRR.”
“This is where the net run rate becomes important. I think if Chennai wins both the matches against LSG, they will not just qualify; they can go ahead just like in 2010. Every match from here is a blockbuster.”
Ashwin’s views on CSK qualification for playoffs..pic.twitter.com/AAhvrPsp4H
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