IPL 2026 thrilling climax: four teams battle for the last playoff spot

Ahmedabad, May 21. The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 has reached its most thrilling phase, with four teams locked in a tight contest for the final playoff berth in the closing week of the league stage.

Today's clash: GT vs CSK

On Thursday, May 21, Gujarat Titans (GT) host Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, with the match starting at 7:30 pm IST. The fixture carries enormous weight in deciding the shape of the top four.

The playoff race

Four teams remain in contention for one spot. Rajasthan Royals control their own destiny, while Punjab Kings, Chennai Super Kings, and Kolkata Knight Riders must depend on results elsewhere. Every match has effectively become a knockout.

Sooryavanshi nears a record

Young sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is on the brink of history for sixes this season. He currently sits on 53 sixes — closing in on Chris Gayle's world record for the most sixes in a single edition — with one league game still to play.

Final in Ahmedabad

The schedule for the TATA IPL 2026 playoffs has been announced, with Ahmedabad set to host the Grand Finale. Playoff tickets went on sale from May 20. The question now is which side will seize fourth place in the final few games and lock up its playoff ticket.