The countdown is almost over. IPL 2026 is all set to kick off on March 28, with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru taking on Sunrisers Hyderabad at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. As always, the tournament promises nearly two months of high-energy cricket, packed stadiums, and non-stop action.
This season will run until May 31, with matches scheduled across multiple cities in India. Whether you’re planning to watch from home or track scores on the go, here’s a clear, no-nonsense breakdown of everything you need to know.
When do matches start?
Most IPL 2026 matches will follow the familiar evening slot. Games will begin at 7:30 PM IST, with the toss at 7:00 PM. On days with double-headers — and there are 12 such days in the league stage — the first match will start at 3:30 PM IST, followed by the evening clash.
So yes, expect your weekends to be fully booked.
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Opening match and final
The season opener features RCB vs SRH on March 28 in Bengaluru — a strong start with one of the most followed teams in action. The final will also be played in Bengaluru on May 31, making it a full-circle moment for the defending champions on home ground.
IPL 2026 teams
All 10 teams are back this season:
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
- Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
- Mumbai Indians (MI)
- Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
- Delhi Capitals (DC)
- Punjab Kings (PBKS)
- Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
- Rajasthan Royals (RR)
- Gujarat Titans (GT)
- Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
Each team will play across home and away venues, keeping the format consistent with recent seasons.
Venues across India
Matches will be hosted in major cricketing cities including Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, and Dharamsala. Expect packed crowds and lively atmospheres — IPL rarely disappoints on that front.
Where to watch IPL 2026 live
Fans can catch the live action on TV via official sports broadcasters. For those who prefer streaming, matches will be available on digital platforms, making it easy to watch on mobile, laptop, or smart TV.
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Live streaming ensures you won’t miss a ball, even if you’re stuck in traffic or sneaking a peek during work hours.
What to expect this season
With RCB coming in as defending champions, there’s extra spotlight on how they handle the pressure. At the same time, teams like MI, CSK, and GT will be looking to bounce back strong, while younger squads aim to shake things up.
The mix of experienced stars and emerging talent continues to be IPL’s biggest strength. And with tighter schedules and high-stakes matches, every game is likely to matter.
