Week 1 Schedule for IPL 2026

The wait is finally over. The BCCI has officially announced the schedule for the 19th edition of the Indian Premier League. Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will host the season opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in what promises to be an electric start to the tournament.

The first week features a mix of traditional rivalries and high-octane matchups across seven different venues.

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Week 1 Fixtures: March 28 – April 3

Opening Week Highlights

The Defending Champions Return

The season begins at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, marking the first time top-level cricket returns to the venue since last year's victory celebrations. RCB will look to start their title defense strongly against a revitalized SRH side.

Venue Spotlight

• Guwahati: Rajasthan Royals will play their initial home games at the ACA Stadium, starting with a massive clash against Chennai Super Kings on March 30.
• New Chandigarh: Punjab Kings will host Gujarat Titans at the New International Cricket Stadium on March 31.
• Lucknow: Delhi Capitals start their campaign away from home, traveling to face Lucknow Super Giants on April 1.

High-Stakes Rivalries

The opening week concludes with Chennai Super Kings returning to their "den," the MA Chidambaram Stadium, to face Punjab Kings on April 3. This follows their opening away fixture in Guwahati, setting up a busy first few days for the Yellow Army.

🔗 References & Further Reading

• IPL 2026 Full Schedule - Olympics.com
• IPL 2026 Fixtures | Complete Match Schedule | IPLT20
• BCCI Announces IPL 2026 Schedule - NDTV Sports

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