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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially unveiled the Phase 1 schedule for the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL), confirming the first 20 matches of the highly anticipated tournament.
According to the announcement, defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will open the season at home against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on March 28, setting the stage for another exciting IPL campaign.
First Phase Runs Until April 12
Due to upcoming state assembly elections in parts of India, the BCCI has decided to release the tournament schedule in phases. The first phase covers matches from March 28 to April 12, with fixtures taking place across several venues in the country.
Tournament organizers stated that the second phase of the schedule will be announced later once security and logistical planning for the remaining matches is finalized.
New Venues and Home Grounds
The schedule also confirms some notable venue changes for the 2026 season.
Defending champions RCB will play two of their designated home matches in Raipur, expanding the IPL’s reach to new cricket markets and giving fans in central India the chance to witness live IPL action.
Meanwhile, Punjab Kings will host early matches in New Chandigarh (Mullanpur), marking the stadium’s increasing importance as a venue for major cricket fixtures.
These adjustments highlight the league’s efforts to broaden its footprint while managing logistical challenges linked to the election period.
Key Matches in the Opening Phase
The first phase of IPL 2026 includes several high-profile clashes featuring some of the tournament’s most popular teams.
On March 29, Mumbai Indians will host Kolkata Knight Riders in what promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of the IPL’s most successful franchises.
Another major early fixture sees Rajasthan Royals take on Chennai Super Kings on March 30 in Guwahati, while Lucknow Super Giants face Delhi Capitals on April 1.
One of the biggest rivalries in IPL history will also take place early in the season when RCB meet Chennai Super Kings on April 5 in Bengaluru, a match expected to attract massive fan interest.
Complete IPL 2026 Phase 1 Fixtures
Anticipation Builds for IPL 2026
With the opening fixtures now confirmed, excitement among cricket fans continues to build ahead of IPL 2026, one of the most popular T20 leagues in the world.
The early schedule promises several blockbuster clashes, fierce rivalries, and the emergence of new talent as teams begin their quest for the coveted IPL trophy.
As the tournament gets underway on March 28, millions of fans across the globe will be closely following the action as the first phase of the IPL season unfolds.
