Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) became the first team to qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs, securing their spot with a win over Delhi Capitals on May 17, 2026. As of May 18, RCB leads the points table with 9 wins in 13 matches, holding a net run rate of +1.065.
Seven other teams remain in contention for the remaining three playoff spots. The current standings show Chennai Super Kings in second place with 8 wins, followed by Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders tied with 7 wins each. Sunrisers Hyderabad, Rajasthan Royals, and Lucknow Super Giants are still mathematically alive, while Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings face elimination.
The playoff race is expected to intensify in the final week of the league stage, with multiple teams vying for position. RCB's strong performance has been driven by key contributions from Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis.
