India, May 24 -- Rajasthan Royals forced their way into the IPL 2026 playoffs with a final league-stage win that settled the last open question in the tournament. RR's victory took them to 16 points, pushed them clear of Punjab Kings, and completed the four-team knockout lineup.

The result left Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Titans, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals as the four playoff teams. PBKS finished fifth on 15 points despite staying alive till the end, while Kolkata Knight Riders' outside chance also disappeared once RR crossed the line.

RR entered their last league game knowing the equation was clean. A win would take them through. Anything less would have dragged the race into net run rate calculations and left PB...