After the record-breaking World Cup final ended with pure domination of India, the Indian Premier League is set to begin on March 28. The BCCI has released the IPL schedule of the first twenty matches. This year IPL will start with the clash of stars, Virat Kohli's bat will face Pat Cummins rage. Royal Challengers Bengaluru will face Sunrisers Hyderabad in the opening match. As this is the 19th edition of the IPL, we can expect a more fearless approach in this season. All of the main international teams have learnt to unleash carnage and adapted the modern-day style of cricket, and in IPL, the trademark will be flaunted more recklessly. Chennai Super Kings, who are known for playing classic cricket, have changed their approach in this season’s auction, which is itself a landmark.
What can we expect from this season?
The IPL has reached a mature stage, and with the spotlight on new-generation players during the auction, this year is anticipated to showcase some unexpected developments in cricket. The contest between bat and ball is set to be one of the most challenging yet.
Also Read । IPL ticket prices may rise this season after GST hike: Here’s what fans should know
As the game has evolved predominantly in favour of batsmen, it will be crucial to observe the new strategies that bowlers adopt in response. The Indian team has shown what a team can do if the team have good bowling. Batters will meet bowlers' innovation. With all teams having the same quality, the 19th season of IPL is going to be one of the most interesting seasons of all time.
First phase of IPL
The first phase schedule of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) has been announced by the BCCI, covering matches from March 28 to April 12, 2026. The season will begin with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru facing Sunrisers Hyderabad in Bengaluru.
Also Read । Who dominated the T20 World Cup 2026? Top batters, bowlers and Player of the Tournament
A total of 19–20 matches, including several double-headers, will be played in this phase. Key fixtures include Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders on March 29 and Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings on March 30. The league will feature matches across multiple venues such as Bengaluru, Mumbai, Guwahati, Lucknow, Delhi, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad. The remaining schedule will be announced later due to the upcoming state assembly elections in India.
