IPL playoff qualification scenarios: Punjab Kings still in control despite slide

Punjab Kings’ strong start is faltering with three consecutive losses, raising concerns about their playoff security. Sloppy fielding and a top-order batting collapse against Sunrisers Hyderabad highlighted recent struggles. While mathematically still in a good position, the team needs to quickly address these issues to avoid entering the playoffs with a losing momentum. Punjab remain in control of qualification mathematically. But unless they quickly clean up the details, they risk entering the playoffs – if they get there – carrying the form of a fading side rather than a genuine contender.