Cricket fans waiting for the schedule of IPL 2026 will have to wait a little longer. Earlier it was expected that the complete schedule of IPL 2026 would be released on March 8, but now it has been postponed by a day. According to the new information, the schedule of the tournament can now be released on March 9 at around 4 or 6 pm.
The TV listing of broadcaster Star Sports has indicated that the schedule of IPL 2026 matches will be announced on Monday. At the same time, it is also considered almost certain that the tournament will start from March 28. Earlier it was believed that IPL could start from March 26, but now its start is considered fixed with a delay of two days. After the release of the schedule, fans will also know between which teams the initial matches will be played.
Announcement will be made in two phases
According to reports, this time BCCI can release the schedule in a “staggered release” i.e. in a phased manner like in previous election years. This means that initially only the schedule of matches for the first 15 to 20 days will be announced. The dates of the remaining matches can be released later.
Where will the first match take place?
According to reports, the first match of the tournament can be played at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, the home ground of current champion Royal Challengers Bangalore. In this match, Bengaluru team is likely to face 2025 runner-up Punjab Kings. However, its official confirmation will be available only after the schedule is released.
Some teams may have two home grounds
According to reports, some teams may play their home matches in two different cities this time. For example, Bengaluru team can play some of its matches in Raipur, while Rajasthan Royals can use Guwahati as its second home ground.
Schedule plan changed due to elections
The upcoming assembly elections are considered to be a major reason for releasing the IPL schedule in phases. Elections are likely to be held in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala and Puducherry between March and May. In such a situation, keeping security and logistics in mind, the organizers have adopted this strategy. After the end of T20 World Cup, now the eyes of cricket fans are fixed on IPL. The excitement about the tournament is expected to increase further once the schedule is released on Monday.
