The excitement around the Indian Premier League 2026 season has officially begun as the first phase of the IPL 2026 schedule has been revealed. Cricket fans across India and the world are eagerly waiting for the tournament to kick off, with several blockbuster clashes lined up in the opening weeks.
The tournament will begin on March 28, 2026, featuring a thrilling opener between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad in Bengaluru. With some of the biggest teams and star players in action, the IPL 2026 first phase schedule promises non-stop entertainment.
Key Highlights
- IPL 2026 begins on March 28 with RCB vs SRH
- First phase runs until April 12
- Major venues across India will host matches
- Several double-header match days included
- RCB vs CSK and MI vs RCB among top clashes
IPL 2026 First Phase Overview
The first phase of IPL 2026 runs from March 28 to April 12, featuring matches across multiple iconic venues including Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Guwahati, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Hyderabad, and Delhi.
Top teams like Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals, and Delhi Capitals will play crucial early matches that could shape the tournament standings.
The opening weeks are particularly important as teams try to gain momentum in the points table.
IPL 2026 First Phase Match Schedule
Here are the key fixtures in the IPL 2026 first phase:
March 28
- RCB vs SRH – Bengaluru – 7:30 PM
March 29
- Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders – Mumbai – 7:30 PM
March 30
- Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings – Guwahati – 7:30 PM
March 31
- Punjab Kings vs Gujarat Titans – Mullanpur – 7:30 PM
April 1
- Lucknow Super Giants vs Delhi Capitals – Lucknow – 7:30 PM
April 2
- KKR vs SRH – Kolkata – 7:30 PM
April 3
- CSK vs PBKS – Chennai – 7:30 PM
April 4 (Double Header)
- DC vs MI – Delhi – 3:30 PM
- GT vs RR – Ahmedabad – 7:30 PM
April 5 (Double Header)
- SRH vs LSG – Hyderabad – 3:30 PM
- RCB vs CSK – Bengaluru – 7:30 PM
April 6
- KKR vs PBKS – Kolkata – 7:30 PM
April 7
- RR vs MI – Guwahati – 7:30 PM
April 8
- DC vs GT – Delhi – 7:30 PM
April 9
- KKR vs LSG – Kolkata – 7:30 PM
April 10
- RR vs RCB – Guwahati – 7:30 PM
April 11 (Double Header)
- PBKS vs SRH – Mullanpur – 3:30 PM
- CSK vs DC – Chennai – 7:30 PM
April 12 (Double Header)
- LSG vs GT – Lucknow – 3:30 PM
- MI vs RCB – Mumbai – 7:30 PM
Top Matches to Watch in IPL 2026 First Phase
RCB vs SRH – Opening Clash
The tournament opener between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad will set the tone for the entire season. Both teams will look to start strong and gain early momentum.
RCB vs CSK – IPL’s Biggest Rivalry
Whenever RCB faces CSK, fans witness one of the most exciting matches in the league. With passionate fan bases and star players on both sides, this clash is expected to be a major highlight.
MI vs RCB – Classic Powerhouse Battle
The match between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 12 could be a high-scoring thriller, considering the strong batting lineups of both teams.
RR vs CSK – Battle of Champions
Venues Hosting IPL 2026 Matches
Several major cricket venues across India will host matches during the IPL 2026 first phase, including:
- M. Chinnaswamy Stadium
- Wankhede Stadium
- Eden Gardens
- MA Chidambaram Stadium
- Narendra Modi Stadium
These iconic stadiums will host packed crowds and electric atmospheres throughout the tournament.
Impact of the First Phase on the Points Table
The first phase of IPL 2026 is crucial because teams try to establish dominance early. Winning the initial matches helps teams secure a comfortable position in the IPL points table and build confidence.
Early victories often determine playoff momentum, making every match extremely important.
Where to Watch IPL 2026
Fans can watch the IPL 2026 matches live on television and digital platforms. The tournament will be broadcast on Star Sports while online streaming will be available on JioHotstar.
The Indian Premier League 2026 is expected to be one of the most competitive seasons yet. With balanced squads, young talent emerging, and experienced international stars, every match could produce surprises.
Franchises like Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, and Kolkata Knight Riders will aim to dominate again, while teams like Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings will look to finally claim the trophy.
The first phase schedule already hints at multiple high-voltage clashes that could set the tone for the rest of the season.
