WPL 2024: Here’s how Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) can ensure playoff qualification

In the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2024, Delhi Capitals (DC) and Mumbai Indians (MI) have already secured their spots in the playoffs, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the group stage. For these two teams, the focus now shifts to determining who will top the table and secure a direct berth in the final.

RCB and UP Warriorz battle for final playoff spot in WPL 2024

While DC and MI have their playoff berths confirmed, the race for the final playoff spot is intensifying between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and UP Warriorz (UPW). Both teams currently stand at 6 points from seven and eight matches respectively, making the upcoming matches crucial for their playoff aspirations.

RCB’s narrow advantage

As it stands, RCB holds a slim advantage over UP Warriorz, securing the third position based on a superior net run rate of +0.027. On the contrary, UP Warriorz find themselves with a net run rate of -0.371, making their path to the playoffs more challenging, especially after losing to Gujarat Giants and easing way for the Smriti Mandhana-led side.

Also READ: Twitter reactions: Deepti Sharma’s heroics in vain as UP Warriorz fall short against Gujarat Giants in WPL 2024

Playoff scenarios for RCB

• RCB faced a setback with a narrow defeat to Delhi, but they have a chance to bounce back against defending champions Mumbai on March 12. A victory in this crucial encounter would secure RCB a third-place finish and, consequently, a playoff berth.
• If RCB loses to Mumbai, they need to ensure that the defeat is not by a significant margin, approximately 65 runs or with 43 balls remaining. This would allow them to maintain a favorable net run rate, keeping them above UP Warriorz in the standings.

RCB’s challenge against MI

Notably, RCB faced a historical challenge against Mumbai Indians in WPL, having lost all three encounters since the inaugural edition last year. Despite the odds, RCB will aim to defy history and secure their spot in the playoffs as the tournament approaches its business end.

Also READ: Surya Kumar Yadav’s encouraging ‘four-word’ message for Richa Ghosh after heartbreaking run-out in WPL 2024

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.