IPL 2026 Playoffs Begin: Four Teams Eye Their Second IPL Title

The league stage of IPL 2026 has officially concluded, with the playoffs set to begin on Tuesday. Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Titans, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals have secured their places in the knockout stage after an intense season. Based on the points table and net run rate, RCB and Gujarat Titans appear slightly stronger heading into the playoffs. However, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals remain dangerous contenders capable of turning the tournament around in crucial matches.

The playoffs now mark a completely new battle where past performances and points table standings no longer matter. Every match from here becomes a knockout encounter, especially for SRH and Rajasthan Royals, where a single defeat will end their title hopes. Interestingly, whichever team lifts the IPL 2026 trophy will become a two-time champion. RCB won their maiden title last season after an 18-year wait, Gujarat Titans lifted the trophy in their debut 2022 season, Sunrisers Hyderabad last won in 2016, while Rajasthan Royals are chasing their second title since their historic triumph in 2008 under Shane Warne.