The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season will be held from March 28 to May 31, according to a report by ESPNcricinfo.
Earlier, in December 2025, the league had informed franchises that the tournament would begin on March 26. However, the start date has now been pushed back by two days, with the final scheduled for May 31.
The IPL Governing Council is expected to meet next week to finalise the complete schedule. The delay is reportedly due to pending announcements of assembly election dates in Assam, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu.
Kolkata and Chennai — home grounds of the three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and five-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK), respectively — could be impacted by the election schedule. Guwahati, the second home venue for Rajasthan Royals (RR), is also in Assam.
The Governing Council is also likely to decide the venue for the opening match, which will feature defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
Following the tragic stampede during RCB’s victory celebrations at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru last June that claimed 11 lives, the franchise is in discussions with the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) regarding whether their seven home matches will be played at the Chinnaswamy Stadium or shifted elsewhere.
As per the report, RCB has shortlisted alternative venues, including Navi Mumbai, Raipur and Pune, if relocation becomes necessary.