IPL 2026 Start Date Confirmed: Schedule Window, Teams, Matches, and Key Details
IPL 2026 is set to begin on March 26 and run until May 31. Here’s everything we know so far about the schedule, teams, matches, and updates.
Introduction
The countdown to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 has officially begun. Cricket fans across India and around the world are eagerly waiting for the next season of the world’s biggest T20 league.
While the full match schedule is yet to be released, the BCCI has confirmed the tournament window. Here’s everything we know so far about the IPL 2026 start date, schedule window, teams, and key updates.
IPL 2026 Start Date Confirmed
The IPL 2026 season will officially begin on March 26, 2026. The tournament will run for just over two months and conclude with the final on May 31, 2026.
IPL 2026 Tournament Window
- Start Date: March 26, 2026
- Final Date: May 31, 2026
- Organiser: BCCI
- Format: T20 League
The scheduling allows a comfortable gap after the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which concludes on March 8, 2026.
Has the IPL 2026 Full Schedule Been Released?
As of December 19, 2025, the full detailed match schedule for IPL 2026 has not yet been officially released by the BCCI or IPL authorities.
This means match-wise fixtures, venues, dates, and timings are still awaited and are expected to be announced closer to the tournament.
Number of Teams and Matches
IPL 2026 will continue with the expanded format introduced in recent seasons.
- Total Teams: 10
- Total Matches: 84
- League Matches: 74
- Playoffs: Qualifier 1, Eliminator, Qualifier 2, Final
Defending Champions
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will enter IPL 2026 as the defending champions.
As per IPL tradition, defending champions often feature in the opening match of the season, although this is yet to be officially confirmed.
IPL 2026 Opening Match – What to Expect
While there is no official confirmation, the opening match of IPL 2026 is likely to feature RCB.
- Likely Team: Royal Challengers Bengaluru
- Possible Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
- Status: Venue clearance and official announcement pending
Overlap with Other Leagues
IPL 2026 is expected to overlap partially with the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Such overlaps have occurred in previous seasons as well, especially with multiple global T20 leagues operating in the same window.
When Will the Full IPL 2026 Fixtures Be Announced?
The complete IPL 2026 fixtures, including:
- Match-wise schedule
- Venues
- Match timings
- Playoff dates
are expected to be released in early 2026, closer to the tournament’s start.
Where to Get Official Updates
For the most accurate and latest IPL 2026 updates, fans should follow official and trusted sources:
- Official IPL website (iplt20.com)
- BCCI announcements
- ESPNcricinfo
- Cricbuzz
Conclusion
IPL 2026 is officially set to kick off on March 26, 2026 and run until May 31, 2026. While fans still await the detailed match schedule, the confirmed window and key details have already started building excitement.
With 10 teams, 84 matches, and defending champions RCB looking to continue their dominance, IPL 2026 promises another thrilling season of cricket. Stay tuned for fixture announcements and opening match confirmations.