The IPL 2026 points table witnessed major changes on Sunday after two crucial matches reshaped the playoff race. Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated Punjab Kings by 23 runs, while Delhi Capitals secured a 5-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals.
With their ninth win of the season, RCB officially became the first team to qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs.
IPL 2026 points table : RCB Reach Playoffs in Dominant Fashion
The victory against Punjab Kings helped Royal Challengers Bengaluru climb to the top section of the IPL 2026 points table with 18 points from 13 matches.
RCB have looked one of the strongest teams this season, delivering consistent performances with both bat and ball. Their qualification has also intensified the competition among the remaining teams battling for the top four spots.
Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans occupy the second spot with 16 points from 13 matches, while Sunrisers Hyderabad are placed third with 14 points from 12 games.
Punjab Kings, however, suffered their sixth consecutive defeat, severely damaging their playoff hopes. PBKS currently have 13 points from 13 matches and now face an uphill battle in the qualification race.
Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals Face Tough Scenario
The second match of the day also had a huge impact on the IPL 2026 points table. Rajasthan Royals’ defeat against Delhi Capitals complicated their playoff equation significantly.
Also read : Rajasthan Royals Playoff Chances Suffer Massive Blow After Loss to Delhi Capitals
RR now have 12 points from 12 matches and must win both remaining games by big margins to stay alive in the playoff race. The team will also have to depend on results from other franchises.
Chennai Super Kings are also sitting on 12 points and currently occupy the sixth position in the standings.
Delhi Capitals moved to seventh place with 12 points from 13 games after their victory over Rajasthan Royals. Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders remain in contention with 11 points from 12 matches.
As the league stage enters its final phase, the IPL 2026 points table is becoming tighter with every passing game.
Virat Kohli and Venkatesh Iyer Shine for RCB
RCB once again delivered a dominant batting display against Punjab Kings. Batting first, Bengaluru posted a massive total of 222/4 in 20 overs.
Venkatesh Iyer played a stunning knock of 73 runs off just 40 balls, while Devdutt Padikkal contributed 45 runs from 25 deliveries.
Star batter Virat Kohli continued his brilliant form and smashed 58 runs off 37 balls, including four boundaries and three sixes.
Their explosive batting performance played a massive role in strengthening RCB’s position in the IPL 2026 points table.
Punjab Kings Fall Short Despite Fightback
Chasing 223, Punjab Kings managed 199/8 in their 20 overs. Shashank Singh scored the highest for PBKS with 56 runs, while Cooper Connolly and Marcus Stoinis added 37 runs each.
However, the target proved too steep against a disciplined RCB bowling attack.
For Bengaluru, Rasikh Salam picked up three wickets for 36 runs, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar claimed two wickets.
With the playoffs approaching rapidly, the battle in the IPL 2026 points table is expected to become even more intense in the coming days.