When will IPL 2026 Start? Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni to Return in Action after India win T20 World Cup Title

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India's triumphant march in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 culminated in a resounding 96-run victory over New Zealand in the final at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium, securing their record third title and back-to-back crowns.

Under captain Suryakumar Yadav's leadership, the Men in Blue showcased dominance with stellar performances from Sanju Samson, who earned Player of the Tournament honors with crucial knocks including 89 in the final, and Jasprit Bumrah's bowling mastery.

This home-soil triumph, the first team to win the T20 World Cup on their own turf, has ignited nationwide celebrations, affirming India's supremacy in short-format cricket. As the confetti settles, cricket enthusiasts turn their gaze to the next grand spectacle: the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026.

IPL 2026 Up Next

The IPL, often dubbed the world's richest and most glamorous T20 league, serves as the perfect follow-up to the World Cup euphoria. With 10 franchises battling in 84 matches, it not only nurtures emerging talent but also features global icons, blending skill, strategy, and spectacle. IPL 2026 is poised to elevate the excitement, especially after Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) maiden title win in 2025, setting the stage for intense title defenses and redemption arcs.

According to official announcements from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and broadcaster Star Sports, IPL 2026 will commence on March 28, 2026. This start date, confirmed just before the T20 World Cup final, marks a slight postponement from the initially planned March 26 to align with weekend scheduling for maximum viewership. The opening match is expected to feature defending champions RCB at Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, potentially against 2025 runners-up Punjab Kings.

This venue choice honors RCB's success and brings matches back to the iconic ground after logistical adjustments in previous seasons.The tournament will span until May 31, 2026, with the final also slated for Bengaluru at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.