In the last league game of IPL 2026, on Sunday, Delhi Capitals defeated Kolkata Knight Riders by 40 runs for a consolation victory, with Lungi Ngidi of South Africa taking 3-27.
After being asked to bat first at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens, in-form batsman KL Rahul scored 60 to lead Delhi to 203-5.
Before wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav dismissed captain Ajinkya Rahane, who scored 63, and Rinku Singh on consecutive deliveries to cause a collapse, Kolkata were strong in their pursuit at 128-3.
Delhi finished the tournament on a positive note and sixth in the 10-team standings when three-time winners Kolkata were dismissed for 163 in 18.4 overs.
“Tonight was good. We’ve had an up-and-down season. It makes it easier to look back and see where we went wrong,” AFP quoted Ngidi as saying.
After being skillfully assisted by left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep (3-29), Ngidi wrapped up the innings. Mitchell Starc of Australia took 2-26.
Soon after the second game of the day began, Rajasthan Royals secured the final playoff position, and Kolkata and Punjab Kings were eliminated from the IPL.
“I’m proud of each and every individual. They put that effort going out there. We didn’t qualify, which is disappointing,” said KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane.
The first Qualifier will take place on Tuesday between Gujarat Titans and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the reigning champions. The victor advances to the final, which is scheduled for May 31 in Ahmedabad.
On Wednesday, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan will square off in the Eliminator; the victor advances to the second Qualifier, while the loser is eliminated from the competition.
