IPL 2024 Playoffs Scenarios: How can Delhi Capitals qualify for playoffs after win against LSG in Match 64?

Delhi Capitals (DC) registered a convincing 19-run win over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Match 64 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. The latest development means there are still six teams in the hunt for a playoff spot. But the truth is that a camel can go through the eye of a needle more easily than today's contenders can enter the playoffs.

Lucknow had more chances than DC with two matches (including today's match) remaining to finalise their place in the league stage points table. But with their latest defeat, their chances have fallen below DC. KL Rahul’s team is currently ranked seventh with 12 points, while Rishabh Pant and Co. have climbed to the fifth spot with 14 points.

Also Check: IPL 2024 Points Table 

Whether DC can qualify is better question than how DC can qualify

Delhi Capitals have completed all their league matches of 204 IPL. They managed to end on a winning note and secure the minimum cut-off point of 14 in their kitty. But still haven't booked their playoff berth, thanks to a dismal net run rate of -0.377. DC's net run rate (NRR) is only better than LSG's (-0.787) among other teams in the competition. 

However, if they manage to beat Mumbai Indians (MI) by a huge margin in their last league game, LSG can overtake DC in terms of NRR. The only possible way for DC to make the playoffs before today's match was to defeat LSG by a huge margin to increase their NRR massively. However, a 19-run win will not do the needful for them.

The defeat of Lucknow certainly put a smile on the faces of the other four teams. With this, Rajasthan Royals (RR) became the second team to qualify for the playoffs. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have increased their chances.

Here is a clear picture of how DC can qualify for IPL 2024 in the most difficult way possible.

- Gujarat Titans and Punjab Kings, who are already eliminated, should opt to bat first Vs SRH.

- Both of them should make at least 200 runs.

- Both have to defeat SRH by atleast a margin of 100 runs.

LSG can also get 14 points if they win their next match against MI. But if this is DC's situation, does it make sense to look at the prospects of the team with the worst NRR this season?