R Ashwin Predicts Top 4 For IPL 2026 Playoffs

Ravichandran Ashwin believes Kolkata Knight Riders could become the most dangerous side in IPL 2026 if they manage to sneak into the playoffs.

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has issued a strong warning to IPL teams regarding Kolkata Knight Riders after their dominant victory over Delhi Capitals.

KKR crushed Delhi Capitals by eight wickets with 5.4 overs remaining while chasing a modest target of 143, keeping their playoff hopes alive after a disastrous start to the season.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin praised KKR’s remarkable turnaround and claimed they could become a dangerous side if they qualify for the knockout stages.

“The concept is that all teams can qualify, but the Delhi Capitals don’t look like they’ll get there. Having said that, I feel KKR will fall short, but if they qualify, they’ll be dangerous. You can’t say anybody is out, but KKR will find it hard. The way they made a comeback and reached nine points is a phenomenal achievement, and that’s why they have won three titles.”

KKR had struggled badly during the first half of IPL 2026 before reviving their campaign with a string of important victories. Ashwin highlighted the franchise’s championship mentality and ability to recover under pressure.

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Ashwin Predicts SRH And RCB To Reach IPL 2026 Playoffs

Ashwin also shared his predictions regarding the IPL 2026 playoff race and backed Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bengaluru to comfortably finish inside the top four.

According to the veteran spinner, the remaining playoff battle is likely to take place between Gujarat Titans, Rajasthan Royals, and Punjab Kings unless Chennai Super Kings produce a dramatic late comeback.

“SRH and RCB are confirmed, both of them will make it, that’s my guess. And two teams from GT, RR, and PBKS. If CSK wants to qualify, they have to win all their remaining four games. If they win their upcoming two games against LSG, then they won’t just qualify but go till the end. If KKR makes a comeback into the game, this has to be a blockbuster season.”

Ashwin also underlined the importance of net run rate in what could become a tightly contested finish involving multiple teams ending on 16 points.

R Ashwin Defends RCB Despite Consecutive Defeats

Despite Royal Challengers Bengaluru suffering back-to-back defeats against Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants, Ashwin remained confident about their chances and backed the squad depth available to the Rajat Patidar-led side.

RCB currently sit third in the IPL 2026 points table with six wins from 10 matches and hold a superior net run rate compared to RR and GT.

Ashwin pointed out that RCB’s narrow defeat against Lucknow Super Giants came immediately after a six-day break, which may have disrupted the team’s momentum.

“RCB surely got a big break. I’ve always noticed. When you come back after a break, it takes time to hit tempo. They were too close against LSG and only lost by a small margin. Their bases are covered. They have ticked all the right boxes. Think about the dressing room, they are champions and started this year.“

Notably, RCB still have multiple tactical options available in their squad, including the possibility of replacing Romario Shepherd with Jacob Duffy to strengthen their bowling attack.

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The franchise can also promote Devdutt Padikkal higher up the batting order if needed. Despite consecutive defeats, the team continues to look balanced and stable, with enough quality in the squad to defeat any opposition on their day and remain strong contenders for IPL 2026 playoff qualification.