In match 48 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, Mumbai Indians (MI) confronted Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Tuesday, hoping to keep their playoff dreams alive. However, their ambitions took a hit as the Super Giants emerged victorious by four wickets. The game witnessed an impressive performance from Marcus Stoiniswho played a difficult half-century and led his team to victory after a solid bowling performance from the LSG bowlers.
LSG climbs to third place, MI remains in ninth place
After their win, the Super Giants climbed to the third position in the IPL 2024 points table. With six wins and a Net Run Rate (NRR) of +0.094, they solidified their position in the playoff race. On the other hand, Mumbai’s problems continued as they were stuck in ninth place with just six points from ten games.
Playoff qualification scenarios for MI
The loss to the Super Giants has dented Mumbai’s playoff hopes significantly. With only four games left in the league stage, MI face an uphill battle. Even if they win all their remaining games, they can only collect 14 points in total. Historically, teams have needed at least 16 points to secure a playoff spot since the league expanded to 10 teams in 2022.
Mathematical miracles needed
Although not yet officially eliminated, Mumbai’s chances of qualifying for the playoffs now rest on a mathematical miracle. To secure fourth place, MI will need to win their remaining games by a significant margin. Furthermore, they need more results to go their way, with the top three teams finishing with more than 16 points and none of the other six teams scoring more than 12 points, an unlikely scenario.
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NRR crucial to MI’s playoff hopes
If several teams reach 14 points, Mumbai will have to have the best Net Run Rate (NRR) to enter the playoffs as the fourth-placed team. This highlights the importance of not only winning games, but winning them convincingly.
Upcoming games for MI
After the defeat against the Super Giants, Mumbai will face each other Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Friday, May 3, at Wankhede Stadium. Afterwards there will be a home game against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on May 6th. Their league phase of IPL 2024 ends with an away game against the Knight Riders on May 11 and a home game against the Super Giants on May 17.