IPL 2023: Harbhajan Singh answers CricTracker's query, predicts teams likely to qualify for playoffs

Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has revealed his picks for top four teams that can qualify for Playoffs in the ongoing IPL 2023. The 16th edition of the League has lived up to its potential so far as defending champions Gujarat Titans are once again at the top of the IPL Points Table, while Lucknow Super Giants, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals are at number two, three and four respectively.

Royal Challengers Bangalore, Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings, who have ten points each after nine matches each, are also in the reckoning to qualify for playoffs as well and thus, the final few weeks of the league stage will definitely be entertaining.

Meanwhile, replying to CricTracker’s question on Star Sports' #AskStar segment, Harbhajan said that Gujarat, Chennai, Mumbai and Bangalore will finish in the top four. The legendary off-spinner also said that even though Mumbai are a bit behind in the race currently, they can overtake Rajasthan in the final weeks of the competition.

“It’s a very difficult question to answer (which teams can qualify for IPL playoffs) but since you have asked, I believe GT will definitely be one of the teams to qualify. Chennai Super Kings will also be there. Mumbai Indians will be the third team to qualify. Yes, you might say that Mumbai are currently behind in the race but I believe they will qualify this season. And lastly, RCB I believe will finish in the top four,” Harbhajan said in response to CricTracker’s question on Star Sports.

“RR will be in the race but someone or the other will overtake them in the end. I believe Mumbai Indians will overtake them,” the 42-year-old added.

Right after 'Bhajji', as he is popularly known, predicted his top four, fellow commentator Deep Dasgupta cheekily replied that out of the four Harbhajan has selected, he has played for two in the past, while he has friends in two other. Dasgupta then interfered and stated that he was only pulling Harbhajan’s leg.

“It’s not about friendships. I believe RR have a great team and they are playing brilliant cricket. See, I believe GT will definitely be there and when it comes to Chennai, they qualify, somehow or the other, they always qualify,” he added.