Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Mar 9: The announcement of the schedule for the 2026 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been delayed by a day, extending the wait for cricket fans across the country.

The fixtures were initially expected to be released on March 8, coinciding with the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. However, according to television listings of host broadcaster Star Sports, the schedule will now be unveiled on Monday, March 9, likely around 4 pm or 6 pm IST.

Earlier reports have confirmed that the IPL 2026 season is scheduled to begin on March 28, two days later than the originally anticipated start date.

Sources indicate that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) may follow a staggered release strategy, similar to previous election years such as 2019 and 2024. Under this approach, only the fixtures for the first 15 to 20 days of the tournament—covering the period from March 28 to mid-April—are expected to be announced initially.

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru are likely to host the opening match at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on March 28. The team is expected to face the 2025 runners-up Punjab Kings in the season opener.

The schedule announcement is also expected to clarify venue arrangements, including reports that Royal Challengers Bengaluru could split their home matches between Bengaluru and Raipur, while Rajasthan Royals may use Guwahati as a secondary home venue.

The decision to release the schedule in phases is believed to be linked to logistical challenges arising from upcoming state assembly elections in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala and Puducherry during the March–May period.

As polling dates are yet to be finalised by the Election Commission of India, the BCCI is expected to confirm the remaining fixtures once the election schedule is announced.