BCCI Announces IPL 2026 Phase 2 Schedule: Complete Fixtures, Venues, and Dates Revealed
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially released the schedule for the second phase of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The updated fixtures confirm that the remaining 50 league-stage matches will take place from April 13 to May 24.
Venues and Opening Match
Phase 2 operations commence with the Sunrisers Hyderabad hosting the Rajasthan Royals in Hyderabad. The BCCI has allocated the 50 matches across 12 designated stadiums throughout India. The selected host cities include:
- Bengaluru
- Mumbai
- Chennai
- Kolkata
- Delhi
- Ahmedabad
- Hyderabad
- Lucknow
- Jaipur
- Dharamsala
- Raipur
- New Chandigarh
Election Impact on Tournament Logistics
The staggered schedule release accommodates state assembly elections. The BCCI initially published only the first 20 fixtures, covering dates up to April 12, to avoid logistical conflicts with upcoming elections in Assam, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu. The board finalized the second phase routing to ensure uninterrupted tournament progression alongside regional polling.
Phase 2 Schedule Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Phase 2 Start Date | April 13, 2026 |
| Phase 2 End Date | May 24, 2026 |
| Total Matches Added | 50 |
| Opening Match | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs. Rajasthan Royals |
| Total Venues | 12 |
Playoff Locations and Tournament Operations
Tournament administrators have confirmed that the IPL will proceed without any reduction in matches, maintaining the standard 74-match format despite documented concerns regarding potential regional energy and fuel shortages impacting travel. Playoff venues remain undecided, with the IPL governing council expected to announce the final qualifier, eliminator, and championship match locations in early May. Fans can track live updates, schedules, and verified scorecards via ESPNcricinfo.