RCB, PBKS to play separate matches at start of IPL 2026

RCB, PBKS to play separate matches at start of IPL 2026 (Source Surjeet Yadav /Getty Image)

The opening match of the 19th season of the Indian Premier League will not feature both the defending champions and the runners-up from the 2025 edition. Finalists Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings are scheduled to play separate matches across the first two days of the tournament.

Traditionally, the league prefers a high-profile start to the season, often involving the defending champions. This year, the curtain-raiser could feature champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru taking on the ever-popular Chennai Super Kings. According to reports by Brand Finance and Duff & Phelps, Chennai Super Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Mumbai Indians, and Kolkata Knight Riders are among the four most prominent marquee teams in the league.

It is understood that runners-up Punjab Kings will begin their campaign against Gujarat Titans at their home ground in Mullanpur on March 29. As previously announced, the IPL season will kick off on March 28 in Bengaluru.

Earlier, it was confirmed that the 19th edition of the IPL will run from March 28 to May 31, slightly revised from the initial window of March 26 to May 30. However, the complete fixture list of the much-anticipated tournament will not be released all at once. Instead, the Board of Control for Cricket in India secretary Devajit Saikia revealed that the schedule for the first 20 days of the tournament will be announced on Thursday, March 12.

Meanwhile, the BCCI has informed all franchises that the annual meeting with team captains and coaches will take place in Mumbai on March 25. The agenda for the meeting will be shared later, although key rule changes and updates for the upcoming season are usually discussed during the gathering. The board has also notified franchises that the captains’ photoshoot will be held in New Delhi on March 15.

IPL 2026 promises to be an exciting edition, with several teams strengthening their squads through key signings during the mini-auction. Teams like KKR and CSK endured underwhelming campaigns last year and have since opted for major squad overhauls as they look to bounce back strongly in the upcoming season.

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.