Shreyas Iyer (Image credit: BCCI/IPL)

NEW DELHI: The race for the final playoff spot in IPL 2026 is getting more intense with every passing game. Three teams – Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Titans and Sunrisers Hyderabad – have already secured qualification for the playoffs. The battle for the remaining spot is now between Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals.Who among Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals will make it through? The answer will be known soon.With Punjab Kings set to face already-eliminated Lucknow Super Giants on Saturday at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow, all eyes are now on this crucial encounter.Punjab Kings began IPL 2026 in dominant fashion under captain Shreyas Iyer – winning six of their first seven matches, with one game ending in no result. But their campaign soon derailed as they slipped badly, suffering six consecutive defeats and losing momentum at the business end of the tournament.Last season’s runners-up Punjab Kings have now gone six matches without a win and head into their final league game against Lucknow Super Giants under immense pressure.LSG, already out of playoff contention, have nothing to lose and will look to end their disappointing campaign on a high while potentially ruining Punjab Kings’ playoff hopes.How Punjab Kings can qualify for the playoffs – scenario explainedIf Punjab Kings defeat Lucknow Super Giants in their final league-stage match, they will move into the top four. However, even a win will not guarantee them a playoff berth.Punjab Kings, currently on 13 points, will move to 15 with a victory over LSG. After that, they will have to depend on results from other matches.The outcome of the Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians clash will have a massive impact on Punjab Kings’ chances. If Rajasthan Royals, who are on 14 points, beat Mumbai Indians, they will qualify for the playoffs with 16 points – one more than Punjab Kings. A win for RR would be enough to seal the final playoff spot.If Rajasthan Royals lose to Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings will then have to hope for another favourable result in the Kolkata Knight Riders vs Delhi Capitals match. PBKS will want Delhi Capitals to beat KKR to keep both teams below them in the standings.