Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) players including Rajat Patidar and teammates celebrating a wicket during their dominant TATA IPL 2026 opening match against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

IPL 2026: RCB Crushes SRH in Season Opener! Kohli & Padikkal Chase 202 in Record Time

The TATA IPL 2026 kicked off at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) securing a dominant 6-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Amidst a sombre pre-match atmosphere following last year's events, RCB’s clinical chase of 201 in just 15.4 overs has set a massive benchmark for the season.

Read MoreIPL 2026: RCB Crushes SRH in Season Opener! Kohli & Padikkal Chase 202 in Record Time
TATA IPL 2026 official schedule logo with the tournament website URL iplt20.com against a blue background.

IPL 2026 Schedule Unveiled: Defending Champs RCB to Kick Off Season on March 28

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).

Read MoreIPL 2026 Schedule Unveiled: Defending Champs RCB to Kick Off Season on March 28