Can CSK still qualify for IPL 2026 playoffs after loss to LSG?

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) suffered a disappointing 7-wicket loss against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) spoiled the party for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who were aiming to enter top four of points table in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 on Friday. The Rishabh Pant-led side beat the opposition by seven wickets at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow to make the road tough for CSK. 

CSK had a poor start to their innings as captain Ruturaj Gaikwad lost his wicket for 13. Soon after that, Sanju Samson (20) and Urvil Patel (6) lost their wickets as Akash Maharaj Singh rattled CSK’s top-order. With the team under pressure, Kartik Sharma (71) stood tall for his team and registered a stupendous half-century.

Dewald Brevis (25) also played his part and supported Sharma well as the two put on 70 runs for the fourth wicket. In the end, Shivam Dube (32*) came up with a terrific finish that powered CSK to 187 for five, which at one stage seemed impossible.

LSG had a dream start to their innings as both Australian openers, Mitchell Marsh (90) and Josh Inglis (36) were all over the CSK bowlers. The two right-handers made no mistake and added 135 runs for the opening stand, which put Chennai on the back foot.

Although, LSG picked quick wickets, Nicholas Pooran (32*) played a blinder and powered his team to a brilliant seven-wicket win inside 17 overs. 

How can Chennai Super Kings qualify for IPL 2026 playoffs after loss to Lucknow Super Giants?

After the loss to Lucknow Super Giants, Chennai Super Kings have put themselves in a difficult spot. But, they still have chance to qualify for IPL 2026 playoffs. The Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side now have two games remaining, and to qualify, they have no option but to win those games.

CSK currently have 12 points from 12 games, and their next games are against Sunrisers Hyderabad (May 18) and Gujarat Titans (May 21). If they win both these games, they will have 16 points, which might push them into playoffs.

However, that wont guarantee them a spot in playoffs as five teams have equal or more points than them. Even if they reach 16 points, they might need some other results to go in their favour as NRR will surely come into play. If the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side loses one more game, then it would mean curtains for them in the league.

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