IPL 2026: Former England batter Kevin Pietersen has predicted his top four teams for IPL 2026, leaving out defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru despite their strong start to the season. Pietersen said Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings are his early picks to reach the playoffs.
“Having watched the first round of matches in the IPL this season, this could be the top four — MI, DC, RR, Punjab. This can change with injuries, but that’s how I see it at the moment,” Pietersen wrote on X.
Rajasthan Royals, led by Riyan Parag, currently top the 10-team table with four points and a strong net run rate. Royal Challengers Bengaluru, captained by Rajat Patidar, are placed second with two points.
Despite RCB’s position near the top, Pietersen expressed concerns about their squad balance. “My concern with RCB is their middle overs and spinners, and Hazlewood’s fitness. Bowlers win you championships,” he said.
Pietersen also ruled out Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Kolkata Knight Riders as early title contenders based on their starts. “Something would have to change massively for me to consider CSK, SRH and KKR as title contenders,” he added.
The opening week of the tournament has seen several high-scoring matches and standout individual performances. Mumbai Indians defeated Kolkata Knight Riders in a high-scoring game at Wankhede Stadium, while Punjab Kings chased down a target against Gujarat Titans.
Among standout performers, Ryan Rickelton scored 81 for Mumbai Indians, while Ishan Kishan made 80 for Sunrisers Hyderabad. Devdutt Padikkal also impressed with a 61 off 26 balls for Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Young players have also made an impact early in the tournament. Angkrish Raghuvanshi contributed for Kolkata Knight Riders, while Rajasthan Royals’ Vaibhav Suryavanshi grabbed attention with a rapid half-century against Chennai Super Kings.
The IPL 2026 season remains in its early stages, and standings are expected to evolve as teams settle into the competition.
