With RCB vs SRH to kick-off things, download the full Phase 1 schedule and fixtures list in IST timing for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026.
It’s here. It’s official!! Yes, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced the schedule and fixtures list for the 19th edition of the Indian Premier League, IPL 2026. The blockbuster season begins with a dynamic RCB vs SRH match on March 28th. The two teams are a batting powerhouse, and with the match scheduled in Bengaluru, expect it to be a batting paradise.
While a full schedule was expected, the BCCI has released only the phase 1 schedule of the tournament. But why has BCCI released only the IPL 2026 Phase 1 schedule? Well, there are elections expected in West Bengal and the other two states. So, unless the dates are announced and security concerns don’t occur, the BCCI won’t announce phase 2 and the final schedule. However, things will be much clearer closer to the kick-off date.
The 19th edition will see a change from what we saw in IPL 2025. Unlike IPL 2025, and before where only 70 matches were played in total, IPL 2026 will witness a total of 84 group stage matches. The tournament will run for 2 months, and will feature many blockbuster clashes. The ones that generally attract the most attention are CSK vs MI, CSK vs RCB, RCB vs KKR, RCB vs MI, MI, vs KKR, etc.
Download IPL 2026 Phase 1 Schedule (HD Image & PDF)
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 Phase 1 schedule begins on March 28, 2026, with an exciting opening clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The first phase features 20 matches scheduled across multiple major cricket venues in India, including Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Lucknow, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Hyderabad, Mullanpur, and Guwahati. Most matches are slated for the traditional 7:30 PM evening slot, while weekend double-headers will include afternoon games starting at 3:30 PM, giving fans a full day of IPL action.
The early part of the tournament already promises several high-profile encounters that are expected to draw significant attention from fans. One of the most anticipated fixtures is the RCB vs CSK clash in Bengaluru on April 5, a rivalry that consistently delivers thrilling contests. Other key matches include MI vs KKR in Mumbai, RR vs CSK in Guwahati, and MI vs RCB on April 12 in Mumbai. Traditional IPL rivalries combined with strong squads make these encounters particularly important as teams aim to build early momentum in the tournament.
Phase 1 also showcases a wide spread of venues, ensuring fans across the country get to experience the IPL atmosphere. Cities like Kolkata, Chennai, Lucknow, and Delhi will host important fixtures, while Guwahati and Mullanpur continue to serve as additional home venues for the Rajasthan Royals and the Punjab Kings, respectively. With a mix of evening primetime games and weekend afternoon matches, the schedule is designed to maximise fan engagement and television viewership, setting the stage for an exciting start to IPL 2026.
Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 Pre-Tournament Round-up
To recap how things stand for IPL 2026, RCB are the defending champions after having won their first title in IPL 2025. Punjab Kings as Runner-up, and Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans were the other two teams playing the Qualifier. The IPL 2026 had witnessed a Mini Auction, and many quality players were signed in the Auction. Australia’s Cameron Green was the highest bid player in the Auction, after his record signing of 25 Cr.
So, that’s about the IPL 2026 Phase 1 schedule and fixtures list. Thanks for reading! Looking at the IPL 2026 Phase 1 schedule list download, which matches are you most excited about? Please email your thoughts to business@cricalytics.com