IPL 2026 will start from March 28, the final match will be played on this day; Latest update related to schedule came out

IPL 2026 Schedule update: Big news has come for crores of cricket fans waiting for IPL 2026. Amidst the ongoing speculation regarding the dates of the upcoming season, now important information about the new schedule of the tournament has come to light, which has further increased the curiosity.

After minor changes made by BCCI, now this Mahakumbh of cricket will start with a delay of two days. Along with this, the date of the final match has also been fixed, so that the franchises, players and fans will be able to finalize their preparations.

IPL 2026: Will start from March 28, final will be played on May 31

According to reports, IPL 2026 will now start from March 28 instead of March 26. At the same time, the final match of the tournament will be held on 31 May. Administrative and security reasons are considered to be the main reasons behind this change. Although BCCI has not yet officially released the complete schedule, the picture regarding the dates is largely clear.

IPL 2026: Assembly elections became the main reason for delay

The biggest reason for the delay in the schedule of IPL 2026 is the assembly elections to be held in Assam, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. Election dates have not been announced yet in these states, due to which there is confusion regarding security arrangements. Home matches of teams like Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders are held in these states. In such a situation, BCCI is waiting for the dates from the Election Commission so that adequate security arrangements can be ensured during the matches.

IPL 2026: Suspense remains on Chinnaswamy Stadium

Defending champion Royal Challengers Bangalore is going to play the opening match of this season, but there is still doubt whether the match will be held at their home ground M Chinnaswamy Stadium or not. Strictness regarding security standards has been increased after the stampede outside the stadium during the victory celebrations last year. The Karnataka government has given permission with some conditions, but the RCB management is demanding unconditional approval.

IPL 2026: Preparation to release backup venue and schedule in two phases

If the situation regarding Chinnaswamy Stadium is not clear, then RCB can play its home matches in Navi Mumbai, Pune or Raipur. The franchise has shortlisted these venues as backup venues and Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium in Raipur has also been inspected.

According to sources, BCCI and IPL Governing Council are also considering releasing the schedule in two phases. In the first phase, the matches of the first two weeks can be announced, while the rest of the schedule will be released after the election dates are clear.