IPL 2024 Qualification scenarios: How can KKR qualify for playoffs after their 8-wicket defeat to PBKS?

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) went down to Punjab Kings (PBKS) by eight wickets in match number 42 of IPL 2024 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Friday, April 26. Batting first after losing the toss, KKR posted 261-6 as Phil Salt top-scored with 75 off 37, while Sunil Narine slammed 71 off 32.

PBKS, though, pulled off the highest chase in T20 cricket history, reaching the target in 18.4 overs. Jonny Bairstow made a superb return to the playing XI, smashing 108* off 48, while Prabhsimran Singh clobbered 54 off 20 and Shashank Singh (68* off 28).

KKR bowlers were taken to the cleaners, as Dushmantha Chameera conceded 0-48 in three overs on his franchise debut, while Harshit Rana went for 61 runs in four overs and Anukul Roy 36 in three. Varun Chakaravarthy (0-46 in three overs) and Andre Russell (0-36 in two overs) proved highly expensive as well.

Despite being beaten comprehensively by Punjab Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders remain second in the IPL 2024 points table. They have 10 points from eight matches, having won five and lost three games.

If we talk about qualification for the playoffs, teams have needed a minimum of 16 points to finish in the top-four since the event turned into a 10-team tussle in 2022. As such, KKR will need to win at least three of their remaining six matches to end the league stage on 16 points. They have a healthy net run rate of +0.972.

While 16 points might be enough for Kolkata Knight Riders to qualify for the next round, they would want to win at least four of their remaining six games to be in a much better position to qualify. If they win four of their six matches, KKR will end the league stage with 18 points.

If Kolkata win five or all six of their remaining IPL 2024 matches, they will finish the league round with 20 or 22 points respectively, which will significantly brighten their chances of finishing in the top-two.

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KKR's remaining matches in IPL 2024

Following their heavy defeat against Punjab, Kolkata will next take on Delhi Capitals at the Eden Gardens on April 29. They will then meet Mumbai Indians in an away game on May 3 and Lucknow Super Giants on May 5.

Kolkata Knight Riders conclude their IPL 2024 league campaign against Mumbai Indians (May 11), Gujarat Titans (May 13) and Rajasthan Royals (May 19).

April 29: Kolkata vs Delhi, Eden Gardens (7:30 PM IST)

May 3: Kolkata vs Mumbai, Wankhede Stadium (7:30 PM IST)

May 5: Kolkata vs Lucknow, Ekana Stadium (7:30 PM IST)

May 11: Kolkata vs Mumbai, Eden Gardens (7:30 PM IST)

May 13: Kolkata vs Gujarat, Narendra Modi Stadium (7:30 PM IST)

May 19: Kolkata vs Rajasthan, Barsapara Stadium, Guwahati (7:30 PM IST)