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From the start of IPL 2026 till the halfway stage of the season, Shreyas Iyer's Punjab Kings (PBKS) looked in an amazing form. The side managed to win six of their first seven games, while one match was abandoned because of rain.
However, PBKS have since lost their winning momentum and have now faced four straight losses. As a result, questions are being raised over whether they can still qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs. The qualification scenarios for the team have now become much clearer.
Also Read: Updated WTC 2025-27 points table: How Bangladesh’s historic win over Pakistan reshaped standings
How many games have PBKS played so far?
So far in IPL 2026, PBKS have played 11 games. The team suffered its first defeat against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on April 28, and nearly 15 days have passed since then, but the Punjab-based side have failed to return to winning ways. They have now lost four games in a row, facing defeats against RR, Gujarat Titans (GT), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Delhi Capitals. Punjab now have only three games left in the league stage of the tournament.
What do PBKS need to do to qualify for the playoffs?
If PBKS want to secure a playoff berth, they must win at least two of their remaining three league matches. PBKS' upcoming games are against Mumbai Indians (MI), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
If the Shreyas Iyer-led side manage to win two of these games, they can secure 17 points, which could be enough to qualify for the playoffs. However, if the team loses two more games, their road to qualification will become very difficult. Last season's runners-up Punjab Kings will next face MI in their upcoming clash on May 14 in Dharamsala.
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