WPL Playoff Scenario: Four Teams, Four Matches, Two Spots – Understanding the Women’s Premier League Equation

With just four group-stage matches remaining in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026, the race for the playoffs is heating up. So far, only Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have secured a spot, leaving two playoff positions up for grabs among four teams.

Playoff Format Explained
The WPL’s top-ranked team after the group stage earns a direct entry to the final. The second and third-placed teams face off in an eliminator match, with the winner advancing to the final. Therefore, finishing in the top three is crucial for all teams still in contention.

Remaining Group Matches:

• Delhi Capitals vs Gujarat Giants – January 27
• RCB vs UP Warriors – January 29
• Mumbai Indians vs Gujarat Giants – January 30
• Delhi Capitals vs UP Warriors – February 1

Team-by-Team Scenarios:

Mumbai Indians:
Mumbai have just one remaining match against Gujarat Giants on January 30. A win would greatly improve their playoff chances, as they have the best net run rate among the four contenders. If they lose, they would need Delhi to lose both of their matches while UP Warriors also face defeat against RCB. In such a scenario, Mumbai could still qualify on net run rate.

Delhi Capitals:
Delhi have a simpler path. Winning both remaining matches guarantees a playoff berth. If RCB loses their remaining games, Delhi could even finish at the top with 10 points. If Delhi lose both matches, they will depend on Gujarat defeating Mumbai and UP losing to RCB, making net run rate a deciding factor. Even winning just one match keeps Delhi in contention, as their net run rate is superior to Gujarat and UP.

Gujarat Giants:
With 6 points from 6 matches, Gujarat need wins against Mumbai and Delhi to secure a playoff spot comfortably. Beating Mumbai would make the path much easier, but a loss to Mumbai and a win against Delhi could make net run rate critical, potentially complicating their qualification.

UP Warriors:
UP face the toughest challenge. They must win both remaining matches and hope for heavy losses for other contenders. Even if they win one match, they will rely on Gujarat winning both games. With similar points, net run rate could once again play a decisive role, making qualification uncertain.

The final round of group matches promises a thrilling race as teams fight for the last two playoff spots, with net run rates likely to play a decisive role in determining the semifinalists.