Kamal Ghorui
The IPL 2026 playoff race is getting more intriguing with each passing day. After 54 of the 70 league matches were completed last week, two teams — five-time champions Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants — were eliminated on the same day, Sunday, May 10.The new week promises even more drama as the remaining eight teams battle for the coveted four playoff spots.The action begins with Punjab Kings, currently on a three-match losing streak, hosting Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala as they look to revive their playoff push. Despite the recent defeats, PBKS remain fourth on the table and still have a strong chance of qualifying. DC, on the other hand, are hanging by a very thin thread and cannot afford another slip-up in their remaining three matches.
Tuesday will see Gujarat Titans and Sunrisers Hyderabad — currently third and second respectively — clash in Ahmedabad as both sides push for a top-two finish.Table-toppers and defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will look to consolidate their position when they host an in-form Kolkata Knight Riders in Raipur on Wednesday. Thursday will then see PBKS continue their playoff push against already-eliminated MI in Dharamsala.Another eliminated side, LSG, will host an in-form Chennai Super Kings in Lucknow on Friday before KKR take on GT at Eden Gardens on Saturday.The Sunday double-header begins with a blockbuster clash between PBKS and RCB in Dharamsala, a match that could have a major impact on the top-two race. Later in the evening, struggling DC will host Rajasthan Royals, who are still looking to stay alive in the playoff race.
Full schedule of IPL 2026 this week (11-17 May): Matches, dates, timings, venues
| Date | Day | Home Team | Visiting Team | Time (IST) | Venue |
| May 11 | Monday | Punjab Kings | Delhi Capitals | 7:30 PM | Dharamsala |
| May 12 | Tuesday | Gujarat Titans | Sunrisers Hyderabad | 7:30 PM | Ahmedabad |
| May 13 | Wednesday | Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Kolkata Knight Riders | 7:30 PM | Raipur |
| May 14 | Thursday | Punjab Kings | Mumbai Indians | 7:30 PM | Dharamsala |
| May 15 | Friday | Lucknow Super Giants | Chennai Super Kings | 7:30 PM | Lucknow |
| May 16 | Saturday | Kolkata Knight Riders | Gujarat Titans | 7:30 PM | Kolkata |
| May 17 | Sunday | Punjab Kings | Royal Challengers Bengaluru | 3:30 PM | Dharamsala |
| May 17 | Sunday | Delhi Capitals | Rajasthan Royals | 7:30 PM | Delhi |
