Just a week into the thrilling Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, former England captain Kevin Pietersen has already stirred debate by predicting his top four teams for the playoffs. While early in the tournament, Pietersen’s assessment—based purely on initial performances—has drawn attention, especially for one notable omission.
Kevin Pietersen names his top four of IPL 2026 after first week of action
Sharing his thoughts on social media platform X, Pietersen picked Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Rajasthan Royals as his current top four contenders for the playoffs.
He clarified that his prediction was based on early observations and could change as the tournament progresses, especially with factors like injuries or form fluctuations coming into play. Even so, his list reflects which teams have made the strongest first impression.
“Having watched the first round of matches in the IPL this season, as it stands, just on observations, this could be the top 4 – MI, DC, RR, PUNJAB. This can all change with injuries, etc., but that’s how I see it at the moment,” wrote Pietersen on X (formerly Twitter).
Having watched the first round of matches in the IPL this season, as it stands, just on observations, this could be the top 4.
MI, DC, RR, PUNJAB
This can all change with injuries etc, but that’s how I see it atm.
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) April 3, 2026
One of the biggest talking points from Pietersen’s prediction is the absence of defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The decision raised eyebrows considering RCB began their campaign with a dominant win over Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Given their strong start and momentum as title holders, many fans expected RCB to feature in any early top-four conversation. Pietersen’s omission suggests he is looking beyond just one result and focusing on overall balance and early consistency among teams.
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Strong starts back the picks
Interestingly, all four teams selected by Pietersen have justified his confidence with winning starts to their campaigns. Rajasthan Royals currently sit at the top of the table after a commanding eight-wicket victory over Chennai Super Kings. The match saw a breakout performance from teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who stunned everyone with a rapid 52 off just 17 balls, instantly becoming one of the stories of the season.
Delhi Capitals also impressed with a composed six-wicket win against Lucknow Super Giants. The chase was anchored by Sameer Rizvi, whose unbeaten 70 showcased maturity under pressure and guided his team home comfortably.
Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians made headlines by breaking their long-standing opening-match struggles. They pulled off a remarkable chase of 221 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders, powered by a blistering knock from Rohit Sharma, who recorded the fastest fifty of his IPL career, and a crucial 81 from Ryan Rickelton.
Punjab Kings rounded off the list with a gritty three-wicket win over Gujarat Titans. Cooper Connolly played a decisive role in finishing the game, helping his side secure an important early victory.
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