Fans waiting for the IPL 2026 schedule may soon get clarity. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is preparing to release the fixtures for the opening phase of the tournament shortly.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the schedule for the first 20 days of IPL 2026 will be announced on March 12. The board will not reveal the entire tournament schedule at once.
The 19 edition of the IPL is expected to begin on March 28 and run until May 31. Earlier, the window was likely to be between March 26 and May 30. The dates have now been adjusted slightly.
Devajit Saikia said the board decided to release the fixtures in phases. The immediate plan is to announce the schedule for the first 20 days of the tournament.
One key reason behind the phased announcement is the upcoming assembly elections. States like West Bengal, Assam and Tamil Nadu will go to polls during this period.
The BCCI wants to avoid any clash between match dates and election schedules. This approach will help authorities manage venues, travel and security arrangements smoothly.
Meanwhile, IPL franchises have already started preparations for the new season. Teams are organising training camps across different locations.
Chennai Super Kings began their camp on March 1 at the High Performance Centre in Navalur. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and senior player MS Dhoni attended the early training sessions.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the defending champions, earlier conducted a preparation camp at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. The team started its preparations well in advance.
Gujarat Titans have also begun training at the Miraj International Cricket Stadium in Nathdwara. The camp is part of their early build up for IPL 2026.
Punjab Kings first held a preparation camp in Abu Dhabi. The team is now continuing its training sessions in Dharamsala.
Sunrisers Hyderabad also began their training camp on March 1 with domestic players. Mumbai Indians have also started their preparations for the upcoming season.
Rajasthan Royals are expected to begin their camp in Jaipur from March 15. Kolkata Knight Riders may start their pre season training on March 18.
Delhi Capitals recently organised a camp in Hyderabad and may hold another one in New Delhi soon. Lucknow Super Giants have already conducted a practice session in Lucknow.
With teams stepping up their preparations and the first phase schedule set to be announced soon, the countdown to IPL 2026 has officially begun.
