The ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 is now heading toward the Playoffs stage as fans anticipate their favorite teams to qualify. Defending champions Gujarat Titans will lock horns against Mumbai Indians at the iconic Wankhede Stadium tonight. Gujarat Titans are currently leading the standings with 16 points and are the favorites to qualify for the Playoffs and finish up in the top two. They have eased their qualification criteria with eight victories in the tournament. Chennai Super Kings is in the second position with 15 points and are also on the verge of qualification.
A bitter fight will be observed amongst all the other franchises to claim the third and fourth position respectively. Mumbai Indians (3rd), Rajasthan Royals (4th), Lucknow Super Giants (5th), Royal Challengers Bangalore (6th), Kolkata Knight Riders (7th), and Punjab Kings (8th) are active in the race of the playoffs. It is merely possible for the struggling Sunrisers Hyderabad (9th) and Delhi Capitals (10th) to make it to the penultimate stage of the championship.
Mumbai Indians victory will end KKR’s direct qualification criteria for IPL 2023
While Mumbai and Rajasthan are on a better stand with six victories, Lucknow, Bangalore, Punjab, and Kolkata have five victories in their tally. Lucknow has an additional 1-point benefit as their clash against Chennai Super Kings was washed off due to rain.
A victory for Mumbai Indians tonight will shatter the hopes of Kolkata Knight Riders after they suffered a humiliating defeat against Rajasthan Royals last night. It will also raise the eyebrows of Lucknow, Bangalore, and Punjab who are also in a must-win situation to qualify for the Playoffs.
On the other hand, Gujarat’s victory will serve better for everyone including Kolkata. Gujarat will confirm their qualification to the Playoffs if they defeat Mumbai tonight. Also, Gujarat will have a direct benefit to finishing in the top two at the standings, and play the Qualifier I that ensures a direct ticket to the ultimate final. It will be interesting to find out the results tonight.
Also read, RR Vs KKR: Jaiswal Equals Record Set By Virat Kohli