IPL 2026 final confirmed for May 31 at M. Chinnaswamy as 84-match season expands

IPL 2026 set for an expanded 84-match marathon

The 19th edition of the Indian Premier League isn't just another season; it's an expanded 84-match marathon. As the league moves closer to its stated goal of a 94-match format by 2028, the 2026 season promises more drama, more local rivalries, and a revamped leadership landscape.

Final confirmed for Bengaluru on May 31

The IPL 2026 Final is officially confirmed for May 31 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, a tribute to the defending champions' home turf. The playoffs are scheduled to begin on May 26, featuring Qualifier 1, the Eliminator, and Qualifier 2, leading up to the grand finale in Bengaluru.

League stage and split venues

The league stage progresses from March 28 to late May. While the traditional home-and-away format remains the backbone of the tournament, several teams are utilising secondary venues to maximise their reach.

• Royal Challengers Bengaluru will play five matches in Bengaluru and two at their “second home” in Raipur.
• Delhi Capitals are splitting fixtures between the Arun Jaitley Stadium and Vizag.
• Punjab Kings will move into the New Chandigarh Stadium.

Captaincy shake-up and young leaders

With several high-profile captaincy changes, the tactical battle off the field is as intense as the action on it. Build-up coverage of the season has highlighted young leaders such as Shubman Gill and Riyan Parag taking centre stage as franchises reshape their leadership groups.

How to follow

Fans can catch every ball of the 2026 season live. As the league stage unfolds, the live-updating IPL Points Table will track every team's journey toward the top four. Bookmark the schedule page for the latest breaking news, injury updates, and expert analysis throughout the season.