Gavaskar backs Punjab Kings and RCB as IPL 2026 finalists after MI exit
Synopsis
Gavaskar's bold call: Punjab Kings and RCB in the IPL 2026 final. With MI knocked out and PBKS reeling from three losses, the legend argues that the reset could be exactly what PBKS need to peak at the right moment — a contrarian take that hinges on psychology over form.
Key Takeaways
Sunil Gavaskar has backed Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru as IPL 2026 finalists on JioStar .
RCB beat Mumbai Indians by two wickets in a last-ball thriller, moving to the top of the standings with 7 wins in 11 games .
MI 's eighth loss in 11 games has eliminated them from playoff contention.
PBKS sit fourth with 13 points despite three consecutive defeats following a 7-game winning streak .
Gavaskar suggested PBKS 's recent losses could reset the squad and prevent complacency ahead of the playoffs.
PBKS face Delhi Capitals on Monday at HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala .
India cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has backed Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru as his picks for the IPL 2026 final, even as Mumbai Indians crashed out of playoff contention following a last-ball defeat to RCB on 11 May. Speaking on JioStar, Gavaskar argued that PBKS's recent three-match losing streak could serve as a reset rather than a collapse, positioning them ahead of other contenders like Delhi Capitals.
RCB's dramatic turnaround
RCB orchestrated one of the tournament's most astonishing victories, edging past MI by two wickets in a chaotic last-ball thriller. The win lifted RCB to the top of the standings with seven victories in 11 games, while MI's eighth loss in as many matches has mathematically ended their playoff hopes.
Punjab's position despite wobble
PBKS began the season with seven consecutive wins but have since stumbled with three consecutive defeats. However, with 13 points already accumulated, they remain fourth on the table and firmly in contention. Gavaskar suggested that the timing of their losses could work in their favour, forcing the squad to recalibrate ahead of the knockout stage.
Gavaskar's analysis
"I would still back Punjab Kings," Gavaskar said. "Sometimes, a couple of losses can actually help a team reset and avoid complacency. Delhi Capitals, on the other hand, have lost games they should have won, and that has been a recurring issue for them this season. Punjab will know how important this stage of the tournament is, and they won't want self-doubt creeping in with another defeat."
MI's path forward
With MI now out of playoff contention, Gavaskar suggested the franchise should prioritise blooding younger players in the remaining matches. "In T20 cricket, ups and downs are bound to happen," he said. "At this stage, my view is that the senior players have given everything they had. Now, it may be the right opportunity to give younger players a chance in the remaining matches. That will help the franchise understand how these youngsters handle pressure and whether they can justify the faith shown in them."
What's ahead
PBKS face Delhi Capitals in their next fixture on Monday evening at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala, a match that could prove decisive in shaping the final playoff lineup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has Sunil Gavaskar backed Punjab Kings despite their three-match losing streak?
Gavaskar believes that PBKS' recent losses could serve as a reset mechanism, helping the team avoid complacency and refocus ahead of the critical playoff stage. He contrasted their situation with Delhi Capitals, who have repeatedly lost games they should have won.
How did RCB eliminate Mumbai Indians from the IPL 2026 playoffs?
RCB defeated MI by two wickets in a last-ball thriller on 11 May. The victory was one of the tournament's most dramatic finishes and mathematically eliminated MI from playoff contention after their eighth loss in 11 games.
What is Punjab Kings' current position in the IPL 2026 standings?
PBKS are currently fourth on the standings with 13 points. Despite three consecutive defeats, they remain firmly in playoff contention with their earlier seven-game winning streak providing a cushion.
What did Gavaskar suggest for Mumbai Indians moving forward?
Gavaskar recommended that MI use their remaining matches to give younger players a chance to prove themselves under pressure, as the senior players have already exhausted their efforts this season.
When is Punjab Kings' next match?
PBKS face Delhi Capitals on Monday evening at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala.
