GT are ninth on the IPL 2024 points table with eight points from 11 matches and a net run rate of -1.32, but they can still qualify for the playoffs.

Gujarat Titans are now ninth on the IPL 2024 points table, ahead of only Mumbai Indians. GT (net run rate -1.32), and are tied on points with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (-0.049) and Punjab Kings (-0.062), but are far behind on net run rate. Punjab also have a match in hand.

The qualification route for GT is difficult. Not only do they have to win all three remaining matches but unless they win a match (or more) by colossal margins, they are unlikely to make up for their net run rate. Thus, they have to finish two points clear of the fifth-placed side.

Let us begin with the most basic requirement: GT need to win each of their three remaining matches, against Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Sunrisers Hyderabad.

That will take GT to 14 points. They are, thus, certain to finish behind the Rajasthan Royals, who already have 16, and KKR, who have 14 but whose net run rate of +1.098 is the best in the league. For GT to qualify, thus, RR and KKR also have to qualify.

With 12 points, Lucknow Super Giants and Sunrisers Hyderabad occupy the next two positions, but since GT have to beat SRH, it is best if LSG have a clear path as well. In GT’s interest, thus, it is best if RR, KKR, and LSG all win as many matches as possible.

Let us now classify all ten teams: Target (GT); Top Three (RR, KKR, LSG); and Bottom Six (the others – SRH, CSK, DC, RCB, PBKS, MI).

Target matches (involving GT)

As discussed before, GT need to win all three of their remaining matches. That will take them to 14 points.

Top Three versus Top Three (RR, KKR, LSG)

The outcome of these matches are inconsequential. Let us, give KKR two points against LSG and RR two points against KKR. The three other possible outcomes will not alter GT’s rank.

One of the Top Three (RR, KKR, LSG) versus one of Bottom Six (SRH, CSK, DC, RCB, PBKS, MI)

The idea is to ensure none of the Bottom Six catches up with GT. Thus, Top Three need to win each of these.

Between two teams in the Bottom Six

Given Gujarat Titans have an ordinary net run rate, none of these sides can reach 14. The best way to achieve this is to ensure the lower-placed of the two teams needs to win.

If the above follows, this is what the points table will look like at the end of the IPL 2024 league stage.

GT can qualify if the rest of the league stage is played out the way mentioned above. However, if one of the Bottom Six breaks through to the 14-point zone, GT will need at least one massive win to make up for their net run rate.

Subscribe to the Wisden Cricket YouTube channel for post-match analysis, player interviews, and much more.