The IPL 2026 league stage concluded on May 21 with a thrilling last-ball finish between RCB and PBKS. The final top four: Gujarat Titans (20 pts), Mumbai Indians (18 pts), Rajasthan Royals (16 pts), and Lucknow Super Giants (16 pts). The Eliminator (May 24) will see RR face LSG at Chepauk. The Qualifier 1 (May 25) is GT vs MI at Ahmedabad.
Key battles: Rashid Khan vs Suryakumar Yadav, and Yashasvi Jaiswal vs Jasprit Bumrah. Our prediction: GT and MI to win their respective matches and meet in the final on May 29.
Why it matters: A new champion will be crowned – GT (2022, 2023) or MI (record 6th title) or RR (after 2008) or LSG (first timer).