IPL Scenarios

My first article in JA606!

Punjab need to win by 60 or more runs to upstage Kolkata in the NRR stakes. That will ensure their qualification to the semifinals/playoffs.

Right now they are behind Kolkata by 0.205 in NRR but after tomorrow's match against the Deccan Chargers, there is every possibility that it will be much improved.

If such is the case, then the KKR vs. Mumbai game will be a virtual quarterfinal- whomsoever wins shall make it into the semis.

Meanwhile Chennai and Bangalore will face off in an earlier match during the same day and while both teams have qualified, they will look to win since they would have to relinquish the No.2 spot if to Kolkata or Mumbai otherwise.

Finishing in the Top 2 is important since those teams are automatically qualified for the Champions League.

Here are the scenarios:

1. Punjab win by 60 runs. KKR win (any margin), Chennai lose by 10 runs.
Then Top 4 will look like this:
RCB
KKR
CSK
KXIP

2. Punjab win by 60 runs, MI win by 65 runs, Chennai lose by 65 runs
Then Top 4 will look like this:
RCB
MI
CSK
KXIP

3. Punjab win by 60 runs, Chennai win, MI/KKR win
Then Top 4 will look like this:
CSK
MI/KKR
RCB
KXIP

Difference in NRR between belligerent teams:
CSK Vs. KKR = 10 runs
CSK Vs. MI = 130 runs
KKR Vs. KXIP= 60 runs

All other NRR are irrelevant.