Updated IPL 2026 Points Table after DC vs RR: Delhi Capitals keep playoffs hope alive with thrilling win

IPL 2026 witnessed a high-stakes double-header Sunday on May 17 as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Delhi Capitals (DC) notched up vital wins that reshaped the points table and intensified the battle for playoff spots. In the afternoon clash at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala, RCB powered to a commanding 23-run victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) and confirmed their berth in the playoffs. In the evening encounter at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi Capitals kept their playoff dreams breathing with a five-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals (RR). Chasing 194, DC reached the target in 19.2 overs, climbing to 12 points and setting up a tense finish to the league stage.

What happened in the PBKS vs RCB match

PBKS won the toss and elected to bowl first on a lively Dharamsala pitch. RCB made the most of it, posting a commanding 222/4 in 20 overs. Venkatesh Iyer led the charge with an unbeaten 73 off just 40 balls, his maiden IPL half-century of the season, while Virat Kohli chipped in with a steady 58 off 37 balls, marking his ninth 500-plus run season in the league. Devdutt Padikkal added a quick 45 off 25, and Jitesh Sharma, captaining in place of the injured Rajat Patidar, helped set a challenging target.

Harpreet Brar was the pick of the PBKS bowlers with 2/35, but the home side couldn’t contain the RCB batters on a good batting surface. In the chase, PBKS started brightly but lost early wickets. They eventually managed 199/7 in 20 overs, falling 23 runs short. Rasikh Salam Dar and the RCB pace attack kept things tight in the death overs, ensuring no late comeback. The match was high-scoring and entertaining, but RCB’s superior batting depth and bowling control proved decisive.

What happened in the DC vs RR match

Rajasthan Royals batted first and posted a competitive 193/8 in 20 overs. Young sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi lit up the innings with a quickfire 46 off just 21 balls, smashing five fours and three sixes. Mitchell Starc starred with the ball for DC, picking up four wickets for 40 runs and triggering a late collapse.

Delhi Capitals chased the target comfortably, reaching 194/5 in 19.2 overs to seal the win with four balls to spare. The victory marked their sixth win of the season and gave them two crucial points. It was a much-needed boost after some inconsistent performances earlier in the campaign. The chase showed better depth in DC’s batting order, helping them overcome a strong RR bowling attack.

Impact on IPL 2026 Points Table

RCB’s win not only confirmed their playoff spot but also boosted their net run rate, strengthening their claim for a top-two finish. PBKS stayed at fourth position and now depend on other results for playoff qualifications.

Delhi Capitals climbed to seventh place with 12 points from 13 games. Rajasthan Royals stayed on 12 points. The top three teams remain in strong positions, but the middle order is packed tight.

Upcoming scenarios

With only a few league matches left, every point counts. RCB and Gujarat Titans look safe at the top with 18 and 16 points respectively. Sunrisers Hyderabad and Punjab Kings are also well-placed. However, Chennai Super Kings, Rajasthan Royals, and Delhi Capitals are now tied on 12 points, making the next few games do-or-die.

DC’s win improves their chances of sneaking into the top four, but their poor net run rate remains a concern. RR, who were hoping to climb higher, will need to bounce back quickly in their remaining fixtures. The playoff scenarios are getting exciting, and fans can expect high-stakes cricket in the coming days.