The IPL 2026 season is set to kick off on Thursday, March 26, and conclude on Sunday, May 31, according to a briefing by IPL CEO Hemang Amin ahead of Tuesday's auction.
Franchise representatives remain keenly interested in the venue, as tradition dictates the defending champions' home ground hosts the first match. However, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has only secured conditional clearance from the state government, pending fulfillment of strict safety and security norms.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the defending champions from their 2025 triumph, may host the opener at Chinnaswamy Stadium pending venue clearance. This timeline emerged from the key pre-auction meeting in Abu Dhabi on December 15, 2025.
IPL CEO Hemang Amin disclosed
the dates during a briefing at Abu Dhabi's W Hotel ahead of the auction. Dy CM DK Shivakumar stated - "We have decided about the IPL matches. We are positive. We have asked our Home Minister G Parameshwara to have a meeting with them (KSCA authorities). Parameshwara will discuss with the Cricket Association. The Home Minister will deal with it. " Full fixtures and venues will follow post-auction squad announcements.
The BCCI has assured IPL franchises that nearly all overseas players will be accessible throughout most of the 2026 season. Concerns lingered over Bangladesh cricketers' participation, but updates confirm they will only miss a short window in April owing to national duties.
This positive development eases scheduling worries for teams ahead of the mega auction, allowing better squad planning around international stars. With IPL 2026 spanning March 26 to May 31, franchises can expect stable lineups barring minor overlaps.
