The BCCI has officially announced the Phase 1 schedule for TATA IPL 2026, covering the first 20 matches from March 28 to April 12, 2026. Due to upcoming State Assembly elections in three states, the full schedule will be finalized once poll dates are confirmed. The season opens with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) hosting Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).