IPL 2026: Exciting Second Phase Kicks Off with Key Matches and Venues Revealed

The IPL 2026 second phase is set to begin on April 13, concluding on May 24, with a total of 50 matches across 12 venues in India. The tournament will kick off with a match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad. As teams compete for playoff spots, excitement is expected to build throughout the league stage. Key details about match locations and home games for various teams have also been announced, promising an action-packed season ahead.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 27, 2026, 11:01 IST

IPL 2026 Second Phase Schedule Announced

New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced that the second phase of IPL 2026 will commence on April 13 and wrap up on May 24. This announcement was made on Thursday alongside the complete schedule for the league phase. The initial phase is set to take place from March 28 to April 12, with the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, going head-to-head with Sunrisers Hyderabad in the opening match at M Chinnaswamy Stadium this Saturday. The grand finale is scheduled for May 31 in Bangalore.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia stated, "The remaining league stage will consist of 50 matches, taking place from April 13 to May 24, 2026, across 12 different venues in India." He further elaborated that matches during this phase will occur in cities including Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Jaipur, Dharamshala, Raipur, and New Chandigarh. As the tournament progresses into this critical phase, teams will vie for playoff positions, with competition expected to heat up in the latter part of the league stage.

The action resumes on April 13, featuring Sunrisers Hyderabad against Rajasthan Royals in Hyderabad, setting the stage for an exhilarating series of matches. This second phase will also include eight double-header days. Punjab Kings will host their home games in New Chandigarh and Dharamshala, with three matches scheduled at the latter venue. Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals will play four home games in Jaipur, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru will have three home matches in Bangalore and two in Raipur. The locations for the playoffs will be disclosed at a later date.