IPL 2026: Season 19 Set to Begin on March 28, RCB to Play the Opening Match
The 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to kick off on March 28, 2026, as confirmed by Star Sports, the official broadcaster, on March 8. This announcement came just hours before the highly anticipated T20 World Cup final between India and New Zealand in Ahmedabad. IPL 2026 will feature a total of 84 matches, an increase from the previous seasons. This season promises to be one of the most exciting as it introduces a longer format and more matches.
RCB to Host the Opening Match
In an exciting development, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), the defending champions, will play the opening match of the season. RCB won their first-ever IPL title in 2025 after a thrilling victory over Punjab Kings in the final. As per IPL tradition, the previous season’s winner gets to host the opening match. This year, RCB will play the opener at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, their home ground. The same stadium will also host the final on May 31. The stadium had undergone security upgrades after an unfortunate incident during RCB’s title celebrations in 2025. After these improvements, it has been cleared to host IPL matches again.
Teams and Format
The IPL 2026 season will feature 10 teams, including some of the most successful franchises in IPL history. These teams are:
Chennai Super Kings
Mumbai Indians
Kolkata Knight Riders
Rajasthan Royals
Delhi Capitals
Sunrisers Hyderabad
Gujarat Titans
Punjab Kings
Lucknow Super Giants
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
The tournament will follow a double round-robin format, where each team plays every other team twice in the league stage. After the league stage, the top 4 teams will advance to the playoffs, leading to the final match. With 84 matches scheduled, this season will be more exciting than ever before.
Why the Start Date Changed
Initially, the IPL 2026 season was scheduled to begin on March 15, but the BCCI decided to shift the start date by two weeks. This change was made to allow a three-week gap following the T20 World Cup final held on March 8. The BCCI further adjusted the start date by two more days, finally confirming the season will kick off on March 28, 2026. This adjustment ensures that the IPL does not overlap with international tournaments and gives the necessary recovery time for players.
Schedule Rollout in Two Phases
The BCCI has decided to release the IPL 2026 schedule in two phases. The first phase will cover the initial weeks of the league stage, and the second phase, which includes the playoffs and the final, will be announced later. This phased approach allows the BCCI to work around state election schedules, a strategy used successfully during the 2024 season.
Broadcasting and Sponsors
Matches will take place at multiple venues across India, and fans can watch the games live on Star Sports or stream them on JioHotstar. Additionally, Tata Group has renewed its sponsorship deal with IPL, continuing as the title sponsor through 2028. This partnership helps provide much-needed financial support and adds prestige to the tournament.
Exciting Cricket Ahead
With an increased number of matches and a longer season, IPL 2026 is set to deliver thrilling cricket action for fans. As defending champions RCB play the opening match, and as the competition intensifies, this season promises to be an unforgettable one, showcasing top-tier cricket across India.
When does IPL 2026 start?
IPL 2026 will begin on March 28, 2026, with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) playing the opening match.
How many teams are participating in IPL 2026?
10 teams will participate in IPL 2026, including Chennai Super Kings, Mumbai Indians, and RCB.
Where will the IPL 2026 final be played?
The final of IPL 2026 will be hosted at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.
How many matches will be played in IPL 2026?
84 matches will be played in IPL 2026, with each team playing every other team twice.
Who won IPL 2025?
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) won IPL 2025, claiming their first-ever title.
