IPL 2026 is set for a blockbuster start with Royal Challengers Bengaluru likely in the opener, while Punjab Kings begin their campaign against Gujarat Titans.
The upcoming season of the Indian Premier League will begin without a direct rematch of the previous final, as the finalists from the 2025 edition are scheduled to play separate opening fixtures in the first two days of the tournament.
The 19th season of the IPL will begin on March 28 in Bengaluru, but the opening clash will not see the defending champions and runners-up from last year facing each other. Instead, the champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru and the runners-up Punjab Kings will begin their campaigns in different matches.
Traditionally, the IPL prefers a blockbuster start to the season, often involving the defending champions. Following that pattern, the curtain-raiser is expected to feature Royal Challengers Bengaluru taking on the hugely popular Chennai Super Kings.
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According to reports by Brand Finance and Duff & Phelps, four franchises, Chennai Super Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders, remain the league’s most prominent and marketable teams, as referred by Cricbuzz, making such matchups highly appealing for the tournament opener.
Punjab Kings To Start Campaign In Mullanpur
Meanwhile, Punjab Kings are expected to play their opening match on March 29 against Gujarat Titans. The game will take place at PBKS’ home venue in Mullanpur, giving the franchise a home start to their campaign.
The scheduling ensures both finalists from the previous season feature early in the tournament while still allowing the league to stage a high-profile opening match involving marquee teams.
BCCI Schedules Captains’ Meet And Photoshoot
Ahead of the new season, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has informed all franchises that the annual meeting between captains and coaches will be held in Mumbai on March 25. The board noted that the agenda for the meeting will be shared later, with key rule changes and season-related discussions typically forming part of the agenda.
In addition, the BCCI has scheduled the official captains’ photoshoot for March 15 in New Delhi, where all franchise skippers will gather ahead of the start of the much-anticipated IPL 2026 season.
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