The wait is finally over for cricket fans across the globe. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially pulled back the curtain on the first phase of the TATA IPL 2026.
As the 19th edition of the world's most popular T20 league approaches, the initial schedule promises a high-octane start, featuring 20 matches across 15 action-packed days.
The Big Kick-Off: RCB vs SRH
Following the long-standing tradition of the defending champions hosting the season opener, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will kick off the tournament at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. They are set to face the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Saturday, March 28, 2026.
For RCB fans, this is more than just a game; it is the first time the team takes the field as defending champions after their historic maiden title win last season.
Why a "Partial" Schedule?
The BCCI has released only the first phase of the schedule, covering matches from March 28 to April 12. This phased approach is due to the upcoming State Assembly Elections in several regions, including West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Assam. Lotus365 Blue To ensure smooth logistics and security arrangements, the remainder of the schedule will be finalized once the Election Commission of India announces the official polling dates.
Key Highlights of Phase 1
Total Matches: 20 games will be played in the first 16 days.
Venues: Matches will be spread across 10 cities: Bengaluru, Mumbai, Guwahati, New Chandigarh, Lucknow, Kolkata, Chennai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Hyderabad.
Double-Headers: The first phase features four double-headers. Afternoon games will begin at 3:30 PM IST, while evening matches will start at 7:30 PM IST.
Secondary Homes: Some teams are continuing to take the game to newer fans. Rajasthan Royals will play their early "home" games in Guwahati, while Punjab Kings will return to their new base in Mullanpur (New Chandigarh).
TATA IPL 2026: Phase 1 Match List (March 28 – April 12)
Date | Match | Venue | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|---|
March 28 | RCB vs SRH | Bengaluru | 7:30 PM |
March 29 | MI vs KKR | Mumbai | 7:30 PM |
March 30 | RR vs CSK | Guwahati | 7:30 PM |
March 31 | PBKS vs GT | New Chandigarh | 7:30 PM |
April 1 | LSG vs DC | Lucknow | 7:30 PM |
April 2 | KKR vs SRH | Kolkata | 7:30 PM |
April 3 | CSK vs PBKS | Chennai | 7:30 PM |
April 4 | DC vs MI | Delhi | 3:30 PM |
April 4 | GT vs RR | Ahmedabad | 7:30 PM |
April 5 | SRH vs LSG | Hyderabad | 3:30 PM |
April 5 | RCB vs CSK | Bengaluru | 7:30 PM |
April 6 | KKR vs PBKS | Kolkata | 7:30 PM |
April 7 | RR vs MI | Guwahati | 7:30 PM |
April 8 | DC vs GT | Delhi | 7:30 PM |
April 9 | KKR vs LSG | Kolkata | 7:30 PM |
April 10 | RR vs RCB | Guwahati | 7:30 PM |
April 11 | PBKS vs SRH | New Chandigarh | 3:30 PM |
April 11 | CSK vs DC | Chennai | 7:30 PM |
April 12 | LSG vs GT | Lucknow | 3:30 PM |
April 12 | MI vs RCB | Mumbai | 7:30 PM |
What to Watch Out For
The opening block of matches features some massive rivalries. The clash between RCB and CSK on April 5 in Bengaluru is already expected to be a sell-out, as is the Mumbai Indians vs RCB showdown at the Wankhede on April 12 to close out the first phase.
With the tournament expanded to 84 matches this year, the competition is fiercer than ever. Stay tuned for the announcement of Phase 2, which is expected in early April!
Are you ready for the 19th edition of the IPL? Which team are you rooting for this year? Let us know in the comments!
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