The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially released the much-anticipated schedule for the second phase of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, setting the stage for an intense and decisive stretch of the tournament. With 50 league matches still to be played, the league stage will resume on April 13 and run until May 24, 2026, promising a thrilling battle for playoff spots.

Second phase resumes with a blockbuster clash

The second phase will kick off with an exciting encounter between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals in Hyderabad. This fixture is expected to set the tone for what lies ahead, as teams return with renewed focus and urgency. With the league entering its business end, every match will carry significant weight. Teams currently hovering around the mid-table will look to build momentum, while frontrunners aim to solidify their positions in the top four.

Matches spread across 12 cities

To ensure widespread fan engagement, the BCCI has scheduled matches across 12 venues in India. The cities hosting the remaining league matches include Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Jaipur, Dharamshala, Raipur, and New Chandigarh. This diverse venue lineup not only brings the action closer to fans across the country but also introduces varying pitch conditions and climates, adding another layer of complexity for teams as they strategize for crucial games.

The second phase will feature eight double-header days, giving fans the chance to enjoy back-to-back matches. These high-intensity days are expected to play a key role in shaping the points table, as teams could quickly rise or fall depending on their performances. The packed schedule will test squad depth, fitness levels, and tactical flexibility, especially for teams dealing with injuries or form concerns.

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Home advantage and venue adjustments

Several franchises will benefit from playing multiple games at their designated home venues. Punjab Kings will split their home fixtures between New Chandigarh and Dharamshala, including three matches in the picturesque hill venue. Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals are set to host four matches in Jaipur, giving them a solid home advantage. Royal Challengers Bengaluru will play three matches at their home ground in Bengaluru, along with two fixtures scheduled in Raipur. These venue allocations could play a crucial role in determining outcomes, as teams often rely heavily on familiar conditions to gain an edge.

While the league phase schedule has been confirmed, the BCCI has stated that the venues for the playoffs will be announced at a later date. This decision keeps fans and teams guessing, adding to the anticipation surrounding the knockout stage.

Complete schedule of IPL 2026 league stage

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