Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) faced their sixth defeat of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. On May 13, Ajinkya Rahane-led KKR could not defend a target of 193 in the absence of an injured Varun Chakaravarthy. While KKR are still alive in the playoffs, given they have three games left in the season, India’s legendary batter Cheteshwar Pujara thinks otherwise. Pujara feels that KKR won’t be able to qualify for playoffs and should play their remaining matches for pride.
“It’s a tough ask for KKR. I don’t think they will be qualifying for the playoffs. The chances are very slim. The way the season has gone for KKR, there’s still a lot to play for. It’s not just about reaching the playoffs. Obviously, when you are not in contention, you play for pride. The way the season started for KKR, it didn’t go their way, but now, they have made a comeback and they would want to finish on a high,” Pujara said on JioHotstar after KKR’s six-wicket defeat in Raipur.
3 games left for KKR, playoffs berth still in sight
KKR are sitting in the eighth place with nine points from 11 games. They can still qualify for the playoffs. They need to win their remaining three games to have a chance for last four spot. A defeat in either of those games would lead to three-time IPL Champions getting eliminated from playoffs race.
KKR's remaining three matches are at home. On May 16, they face Gujarat Titans (GT). Then, they face Mumbai Indians (MI) on May 20. MI have already been ruled out of the tournament and currently in ninth position. Their final league stage game is against Delhi Capitals (DC) whom they had beaten comprehensively in the previous clash.
Chakaravarthy injured, Pathirana benched
Chakaravarthy’s absence was a huge blow for KKR in RCB clash. He could’ve bowled in tandem with Sunil Narine and created pressure in the middle overs. In the post-match press conference, head coach Abhishek Nayar confirmed that the mystery spinner has a fracture, not a niggle as Rahane said at the coin toss. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka pacer Matheesha Pathirana continues to be benched as he hasn’t been able to fit in KKR’s overseas options. With Varun doubtful to play further part in the tournament, it is yet to be seen whether Pathirana makes his debut in purple and gold in must-win encounter.