The buzz around IPL 2026 is only increasing as fans are eagerly waiting for the release of the official schedule. Although the BCCI has not yet released the official schedule, some key details have already given us a clear idea of what to expect.
Below, you will find all information regarding the IPL 2026 start date, first match, total matches, match timings, points table format, and final date.
IPL 2026 Start Date in India
The IPL has always started in late March. Hence, the IPL 2026 will likely start in the last week of March 2026.
The tournament has always started on a weekend evening in the previous seasons to get maximum television coverage. Hence, the same is expected in 2026.
But the BCCI will announce the date of commencement of the tournament after finalizing the international calendar of cricket.
IPL 2026 First Match Details
The first match of the IPL 2026 will probably include the defending champions playing at their home ground. This is because the league tends to give the previous season’s winner the first match.
In addition, the first match is normally held at one of the large stadiums, such as Ahmedabad, Mumbai, or Chennai. The match normally starts at 7:30 PM IST, after a spectacular opening ceremony.
This means that the first match of the season tends to be one of the most-watched matches.
IPL 2026 Total Matches
If the tournament structure remains unchanged, IPL 2026 will feature 74 matches.
Each of the 10 teams will play 14 league matches — seven at home and seven away. After the league stage concludes, the top four teams will qualify for the playoffs.
Furthermore, the playoffs will include:
- Qualifier 1
- Eliminator
- Qualifier 2
- Final
This format keeps the competition intense until the very end.
Match Timings and Time Table
Although officials have not released the full IPL 2026 schedule yet, match timings will likely follow the standard pattern.
Typically:
- Afternoon matches start at 3:30 PM IST
- Evening matches begin at 7:30 PM IST
Additionally, the league schedules double-headers on weekends. Meanwhile, weekday matches usually take place in the evening slot.
Once the BCCI announces the official time table, fans can check venue-wise fixtures, team matchups, and ticket booking information.
IPL 2026 Points Table Format
The IPL points table system remains simple and competitive. Teams earn:
- 2 points for a win
- 0 points for a loss
- 1 point for a no-result match
However, if two teams finish with equal points, officials use Net Run Rate (NRR) to determine rankings.
At the end of the league stage:
- The top two teams play Qualifier 1.
- The third and fourth teams compete in the Eliminator.
- The Eliminator winner faces the Qualifier 1 loser in Qualifier 2.
- Finally, the winners of Qualifier 1 and Qualifier 2 meet in the IPL 2026 Final.
Therefore, teams that finish in the top two positions gain a significant advantage.
IPL 2026 Final Date
The final of the IPL tournament normally happens in late May. Therefore, the IPL 2026 will end in the last week of May 2026.
In recent years, the organizers have selected large-capacity stadiums like the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad to host the final match. As a result, the fans should expect a large turnout and a grand closing ceremony.
Expected Teams in IPL 2026
IPL 2026 will most likely feature the same 10 teams:
- Chennai Super Kings
- Mumbai Indians
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru
- Kolkata Knight Riders
- Delhi Capitals
- Rajasthan Royals
- Sunrisers Hyderabad
- Punjab Kings
- Gujarat Titans
- Lucknow Super Giants
Each franchise will compete across multiple Indian venues, creating a nationwide cricket festival.
When Will IPL 2026 Schedule Be Announced?
The BCCI normally announces the complete schedule of the IPL one to two months prior to the start of the tournament. Hence, the IPL 2026 schedule should be out in January or February 2026.
Once the schedule is announced, ticketing information, venues, and telecast details will be announced.
Why IPL 2026 Is Highly Anticipated
IPL remains the undisputed leader in the world of T20 cricket. Each new season of IPL brings exciting conclusions, last-over thrillers, and quality performances of international players as well as young Indian talent.
In addition, the auctions of players, team changes, and new rivalries always raise the level of expectation before the start of the new season. This means that the IPL 2026 season will also break new records in viewership.
Final
Although the officials have not yet made an announcement regarding the entire schedule of the IPL 2026, it is expected that the tournament will begin in late March 2026 and conclude in late May 2026. The upcoming season is expected to include 74 matches, as well as the traditional match timings and playoff system.
Thus, cricket lovers must remain cautious and vigilant for the official announcement in early 2026. As soon as the BCCI makes an announcement regarding the schedule, the eagerness among Indians will escalate.
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