The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have secured their place in the IPL 2024 final after a dominant performance against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), winning by 8 wickets. This victory propels KKR into their fourth IPL final, setting the stage for an exciting clash at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday, May 26. KKR has been a formidable force this season, showcasing their consistency by defeating all competing teams and losing only three games during the league stage. Their journey through Qualifier 1 was particularly impressive, overcoming one of the most potent batting line-ups in the tournament.
Format of the IPL Playoffs
The IPL playoff format is designed to give the top two ranked teams at the league stage two opportunities to reach the final. The first Qualifier was contested between the top-ranked KKR and the second-placed SRH. With KKR emerging victorious, SRH still has a chance to reach the final through Qualifier 2. They will face the winner of the Eliminator match between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
The Eliminator: Rajasthan Royals vs. Royal Challengers Bangalore
The Eliminator match between RR and RCB is scheduled to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the same venue as Qualifier 1. RR finished third in the league stage, despite a challenging end to their campaign, losing five consecutive matches. In contrast, RCB made a remarkable comeback, winning six matches in a row to secure the fourth spot and qualify for the playoffs, edging out Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
Qualifier 2: The Last Step to the Final
Having lost Qualifier 1, SRH now advances to Qualifier 2, where they will face the winner of the RR vs. RCB Eliminator. Qualifier 2 is set to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday, May 24. The winner of this match will earn the right to challenge KKR in the grand finale.
Kolkata Knight Riders: A History of Success
KKR is no stranger to IPL finals, having previously won the title three times. Their final appearances include victories in Chennai in 2012, Bengaluru in 2014, and Dubai in 2021. This experience in high-pressure matches and their ability to win away from home and in different conditions makes them a formidable opponent in the final.
Potential Rematch or New Challenger?
The possibility of a rematch between KKR and SRH in the final looms large if SRH manages to win Qualifier 2. However,
