BCCI to announce IPL 2026 schedule for first 20 days by March 12: Saikia
New Delhi, March 10
The Board of Control for Cricket in India will release the schedule for the first 20 days of the Indian Premier League 2026 by March 12, said secretary Devajit Saikia. The 19th edition of the IPL will run from March 28 to May 31, after the initial window was between March 26 and May 30.
"We plan to announce the IPL 2026 schedule by March 12. For now, we are going to announce the IPL schedule for the first 20 days," Saikia told IANS on Tuesday. It is understood the remainder of the tournament's schedule will come later as the BCCI aims to avoid a clash with assembly elections in West Bengal, Assam and Tamil Nadu.
Nevertheless, teams have already begun their pre-season preparations. Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings started their training on March 1 at their High-Performance Centre in Navalur, with captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and MS Dhoni among those present.
Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru held a small preparation camp at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on February 10, while 2022 champions Gujarat Titans held practice sessions twice at the Miraj International Cricket Stadium in Nathdwara.
Punjab Kings trained in Abu Dhabi in early February and are currently running a practice camp in Dharamsala, while 2016 winners Sunrisers Hyderabad began their camp on March 1 with their domestic players. Five-time winners Mumbai Indians have also started their training for the upcoming season.
2008 winners Rajasthan Royals are expected to assemble for a practice camp in Jaipur from March 15, while three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders will begin their pre-season camp on March 18. Delhi Capitals recently did one in Hyderabad and are expected to have one in New Delhi, while Lucknow Super Giants had held a preparatory session in Lucknow.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Excited for the new season! But announcing the schedule in parts is a bit frustrating for fans who want to book travel and tickets in advance. Hope the full fixture list comes out quickly.
CSK starting early as always! Thala Dhoni's presence alone boosts the morale. Can't wait for March 28. The wait is killing me! 💛
Interesting to see teams training in so many different locations - Abu Dhabi, Dharamsala, Hyderabad. Shows how much the IPL has become a global event with local heart. Looking forward to it!
Smart planning considering the elections in Bengal, Assam, and TN. Security and smooth conduct should be the priority. Hope RCB can finally lift the trophy this year! 🏆
With all teams already in prep mode, the competition looks intense from day one. Just hoping for no last-minute venue changes like last season which caused so much confusion.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.