The 19th season of the Indian Premier League will begin on March 28, 2026. The Board of Control for Cricket in India has shifted the start date by two days from March 26. However, the final will still take place on May 31, 2026. With only a month left, fans still wait for the official match schedule. The board plans to release the fixtures soon after reviewing logistical details.
Elections Delay Full Schedule Announcement
The BCCI has delayed the complete schedule due to upcoming assembly elections. Poll dates in Assam, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu may affect venue planning. Teams such as Kolkata Knight Riders, Chennai Super Kings, and Rajasthan Royals could face adjustments. Their home grounds — Eden Gardens, MA Chidambaram Stadium, and Barsapara Stadium — fall in poll-bound states. In previous election years like 2009 and 2014, the board announced the schedule in two phases. Officials may follow the same model this season.
RCB Likely to Host Season Opener
Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will likely host the opening match. League rules allow the previous winners to stage the first game. The main question remains whether the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium will host the clash. Authorities have approved the venue for RCB’s home games. However, the stadium has not hosted a match since last year’s tragic stampede during RCB’s title celebration. The IPL Governing Council will take the final call soon.
RCB Aim to Defend Their Historic Title
RCB enter IPL 2026 as defending champions after beating the Punjab Kings in the 2025 final. The summit clash took place at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The franchise will now aim to defend its first-ever IPL trophy. With the new start date confirmed, excitement continues to build. Fans now await the official schedule release as the countdown to IPL 2026 begins.
