IPL 2026 schedule will be released in two phases, date of first phase revealed; Know A to Z updates related to the tournament

IPL 2026: Cricket fans are eagerly waiting for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, but the complete schedule of the tournament has not been revealed yet. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the IPL Governing Council have decided that this time the fixtures will be released in two parts.

The first part is coming soon, while the second part will be announced later. This change has also been seen in the last few election years.

Main reason for delay in schedule

Assembly elections are going to be held in many states this year. In states like Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, the Election Commission has not been able to declare the dates yet. There are big stadiums in these states like Kolkata, Chennai and Guwahati, where IPL matches are played.

There may be clashes in the matches due to security, crowd management and government rules during elections. Therefore BCCI is exercising caution and waiting for the election dates.

Plan to release schedule in two phases

IPL Governing Council recently held an online meeting. It was decided that the schedule of season 19 will come in two phases. The first phase will be of initial 13-14 days of matches, which will include the initial rounds of the league.

This part may be released by 6th or 7th March. The second phase will come when the Election Commission announces the election dates. With this, the remaining matches can be fitted easily.

Tentative tournament dates and other updates

Earlier IPL had told that the season will start from March 26, but now according to reports, the start may be on March 28 and the final on May 31. Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bangalore have announced that they will play their 5 matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium. The opening match is also expected to be held here. As per tradition the defending champion hosts the first match. Playoffs and finals can also be held in Bengaluru.

BCCI’s IPL COO Hemang Amin has told the franchises that the guidelines for the practice session will be available next week. Information about the captains’ meeting will also come soon.