IPL 2026 News Bulletin March 11: Schedule Announcement, RCB vs CSK Opener, PSL Clash

With the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 wrapped up, attention across the cricket world is rapidly shifting toward the Indian Premier League 2026, which begins later this month. Preparations are underway across franchises, broadcasters and governing bodies, while geopolitical developments and election schedules are also influencing planning for the new season.

Here are the top stories from the cricket world.

1. Two-Phase IPL 2026 schedule likely to be announced on March 12

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to release the IPL 2026 schedule within the next couple of days.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the schedule will likely be announced on March 12 or 13, with the tournament set to run from March 28 to May 31.

Due to upcoming assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Assam and Kerala, the schedule will be released in two phases, with the first phase covering the opening 20 days of the tournament.

Saikia also confirmed that Raipur will serve as a new venue this season alongside the regular IPL centres.

2. RCB could face CSK in IPL 2026 opening blockbuster

The IPL is reportedly planning a high-voltage start to the season, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru potentially facing Chennai Super Kings in the opening match on March 28 in Bengaluru.

Defending champions RCB are expected to headline the curtain-raiser, while Punjab Kings may begin their campaign on March 29 against Gujarat Titans in Mullanpur.

Rather than staging a rematch of last season's final, the league appears keen to open with one of its most marketable rivalries to immediately capture fan attention.

3. Matthew Hayden joins Gujarat Titans as batting coach

Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden has been appointed as the batting coach of Gujarat Titans ahead of IPL 2026.

The franchise said Hayden's experience and deep understanding of modern T20 batting will strengthen their coaching setup as they prepare for the upcoming season.

GT Director of Cricket Vikram Solanki described the appointment as an important step in strengthening the team's cricketing ecosystem and mentoring emerging talent.

4. PSL 2026 Challenges IPL, begins March 26

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled the schedule for Pakistan Super League 2026, which will begin on March 26.

The tournament will feature 44 matches across six venues, including Karachi, Lahore, Multan and Rawalpindi, with the final scheduled for May 3 at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.

The upcoming season will also feature two new teams, expanding the league's structure and competition.

5. IPL monitoring fuel situation amid Israel-Iran conflict

The IPL Governing Council is also keeping a close watch on the global fuel situation amid the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict.

After the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas prioritised LPG supplies for domestic and essential sectors, concerns have emerged about potential shortages affecting industries such as hotels and hospitality.

IPL Governing Council chairman Arun Dhumal said the league is monitoring developments closely.

"We are reviewing the development. Since this is an evolving situation, nothing can be said as of now. But given the requirement of the situation, we will take a call accordingly," Dhumal said.

Several IPL franchises have already begun training camps, but officials acknowledged that logistics and fuel supply could become factors if the situation escalates.

As the countdown to IPL 2026 continues, the league is navigating not just sporting preparations but also logistical and global developments that could shape the upcoming season.