IPL 2024 Playoffs: Can Mumbai Indians still make it to top four after KKR loss? Possible scenarios

Hardik Pandya celebrates the fall of a wicket with teammates (Pic: @AFP)

Suryakumar Yadav hit an unbeaten 102 to lead Mumbai Indians to a crushing seven-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad on Monday as teams jostle for a ticket to IPL 2024 Playoffs. Chasing 174 for victory, Mumbai slipped to 31-3 before Suryakumar put on an unbeaten stand of 143 with Tilak Varma to achieve the target with 16 balls to spare at their home Wankhede Stadium.

Mumbai, however, find themselves grappling with a formidable path to the IPL 2024 playoffs, notwithstanding their recent victory.

With only two league-stage matches remaining, Mumbai Indians confront a precarious situation, languishing in ninth place in the IPL 2024 standings. Having accumulated eight points from 12 games and acquired a net run rate (NRR) of -0.212, their victory over Sunrisers, while significant, failed to propel them to a secure playoff position.

MI's post-season dreams rely on triumphs in their upcoming encounters against KKR and LSG. However, mere victories may not suffice. Their negative NRR presents a formidable obstacle, necessitating convincing performances to enhance their run rate.

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The challenge is compounded by the standings of rival teams contending for playoff berths. KKR and Rajasthan Royals have already amassed 16 points each, rendering it implausible for MI to catch up.

Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and LSG are also on 12 points apiece, potentially congesting the mid-table.

In this intricate scenario, MI's prospects hinge on multiple teams finishing the league stage with 12 points, granting them an outside chance based on a superior NRR. However, this scenario demands not only victories for MI but also defeats for their competitors.

With Delhi Capitals holding ten points and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Punjab Kings, and Gujarat Titans on eight points each, the competition intensifies for playoff contention.

With their post-season destiny in jeopardy, Mumbai Indians confront a formidable challenge ahead. They must approach their remaining fixtures with resolute determination, striving not only for triumphs but also for dominance on the field to bolster their NRR.

(With agency inputs)