IPL 2026 is set to begin with exciting changes, including a new format, player trades, and updated rules. Featuring 10 teams and 74 matches, the season promises intense competition. Several teams will use multiple home venues, while big names are missing due to injuries or other commitments.
IPL 2026 Begins Today
New Delhi: The wait for cricket fans is about to end, as the thrilling Indian Premier League 2026 begins today on Saturday. Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will face Sunrisers Hyderabad in their opening match. The tournament final will be played on May 31st, and a total of 74 matches will be played this time.
This season, 10 teams have been divided into two groups of five each. Group A includes Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Punjab Kings. Group B includes Mumbai Indians, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Gujarat Titans, Delhi Capitals, and Lucknow Super Giants.
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This season, many teams will use two home grounds. RCB will play some of its matches in Raipur, while Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals will also host their matches in different cities. This will give fans from different cities the opportunity to watch the matches.
Several major trades have taken place prior to this season. Sanju Samson joined Chennai Super Kings, while Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran joined Rajasthan Royals. Players like Mohammed Shami, Nitish Rana, and Arjun Tendulkar also changed teams.
Cameron Green was the most expensive player in the auction, bought by KKR for ₹25.2 crore. A lot of money was also spent on young players this time.
Many teams are struggling with injuries this season. KKR's Harshit Rana and Akash Deep are out of the entire tournament. Pat Cummins will not play in the initial matches. This could impact team composition.
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Some prominent players will be absent this season. Stars like Glenn Maxwell, Faf du Plessis, and Moeen Ali are not part of the IPL. This could lead to changes in team strategies.
The BCCI has implemented some new rules this season. Decisions have been made, including a ban on match-day practice, limited practice matches, and restrictions on family travel with players. Seating in certain areas of the ground has also been restricted.
The biggest question is whether this will be MS Dhoni's last IPL season. Fans are both excited and emotional about this.
