Bangar Weighs Up KKR and PBKS Playoff Hopes in a Tight IPL Race

Sanjay Bangar has examined the playoff outlook for Punjab Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders, two sides heading in opposite directions in IPL 2026.

Punjab in trouble

PBKS once led the table but have now lost four in a row, the latest a costly defeat to Delhi Capitals in Dharamshala. Bangar said Shreyas Iyer’s team must win at least two of their remaining three matches to stay in contention. He added that the Gujarat Titans versus Sunrisers Hyderabad game could prove decisive for qualification, and that Punjab’s slump has badly damaged their hopes of a top-two finish.

KKR’s revival

Kolkata, by contrast, sat at the bottom earlier in the season but have won four in a row. Bangar praised their improved balance, citing a revived spin attack and steady batting. He said that if the three-time champions win their last four matches, it would count among the greatest comebacks in IPL history.

The table

RCB, SRH and GT are level on 14 points after 11 games each. PBKS are fourth on 13, with CSK and RR on 12. Delhi have 10 and KKR nine, leaving the race wide open.