IPL 2026: Dates, format, fixtures and team details

The Indian Premier League's 19th season begins March 28 and concludes May 31. Ten teams will compete in a double round-robin format, with the top four advancing to the playoffs.

Key takeaways

Quick scan — what you need to know:

• The Indian Premier League's 19th season begins March 28 and concludes May 31.
• Ten teams will compete in a double round-robin format, with the top four advancing to the playoffs.
• Matches will be held across various Indian cities, starting with Royal Challengers Bengaluru versus Sunrisers Hyderabad in Bengaluru.
• This highly anticipated cricket tournament promises exciting competition.

Background

What led here, in plain terms:

• The Indian Premier League's 19th season begins March 28 and concludes May 31.
• Ten teams will compete in a double round-robin format, with the top four advancing to the playoffs.
• Matches will be held across various Indian cities, starting with Royal Challengers Bengaluru versus Sunrisers Hyderabad in Bengaluru.
• This highly anticipated cricket tournament promises exciting competition.

Why it matters

Why readers and decision-makers should care:

• The Indian Premier League's 19th season begins March 28 and concludes May 31.
• Ten teams will compete in a double round-robin format, with the top four advancing to the playoffs.
• Matches will be held across various Indian cities, starting with Royal Challengers Bengaluru versus Sunrisers Hyderabad in Bengaluru.