The wait is finally over! The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially pulled back the curtain on the opening act of the TATA IPL 2026.

As we gear up for the 19th edition of the world's most lucrative T20 league, the BCCI has released a partial schedule for the first phase, spanning from March 28 to April 12, 2026. This initial block features 20 high-octane matches that will set the tone for a summer of cricketing brilliance.

Why a "Phase 1" Schedule?

Cricket fans might wonder why the full schedule wasn't released at once. The BCCI clarified that the staggered announcement is due to upcoming State Assembly elections in three states. Lotus365 Blue To ensure logistical smooth-sailing and security coordination, the remaining fixtures will be finalized once the Election Commission of India confirms the poll dates.

The Blockbuster Opening: RCB vs SRH

In keeping with tradition, the tournament kicks off with the defending champions in action. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), coming off their historic maiden title in 2025, will host the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on March 28.

• Date: March 28, 2026

• Venue: M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

• Time: 7:30 PM IST

Key Highlights of Phase 1

• 20 Matches, 10 Venues: The first 15 days will see action travel across India, including Bengaluru, Mumbai, Guwahati, New Chandigarh (Mullanpur), Lucknow, Kolkata, Chennai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Hyderabad.

• Double Headers: Fans can look forward to four double-headers during this phase. Afternoon games will begin at 3:30 PM IST, with evening matches starting at 7:30 PM IST.

• New "Home" Grounds: * Rajasthan Royals will start their campaign at their secondary home in Guwahati, hosting CSK and MI.

  • Punjab Kings will play their early fixtures at the new PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh.

• Bengaluru Clearance: Notably, matches in Bengaluru are currently subject to a final clearance from a government-appointed expert committee, with a mock drill scheduled for March 13 to test match-day arrangements.

Phase 1 Fixture List (March 28 – April 12)

What to Watch Out For?

This season is particularly interesting following the 2026 auction dynamics. Defending champs RCB, led by Rajat Patidar, will face a stiff challenge from a revamped SRH under Pat Cummins. We also see high-stakes encounters like the "Southern Derby" (RCB vs CSK) as early as April 5 and a massive clash between MI and RCB to close out the first phase on April 12.

Stay tuned as we bring you more updates on player form, team news, and the eventual announcement of the Phase 2 schedule!

Who are you rooting for this year? Let us know in the comments!