IPL to launch own fantasy league in 2026 after government ban online betting apps
The Indian government banned online betting platforms last year.
The Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) is set to start on March 28, with the opening clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Ahead of the upcoming season, IPL has brought good news for cricket fans.
The world’s richest franchise T20 league is set to launch its own fantasy cricket application in 2026 after the government banned online money games last year.
In September 2025, the Indian Parliament passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, which sought a comprehensive legal framework for the online gaming sector.
The bill, which criminalised the offering, promotion, and financing of such games, was passed as the government was concerned about the risks connected with online gambling.
The platforms were raising various psychological, financial, and health concerns among people due to their addictive nature. Sources reported that the online gambling platforms had caused widespread financial distress, addiction, and even suicide.
Additionally, according to Al Jazeera, India is also the largest market for such platforms, with more than one-third of the nation’s population having lost money in such games.
The bill banned all online gambling platforms, which claimed to be raking in a steep amount of $2.3bn annually from 450 million people. Dream11 was one of the biggest gaming platforms at the time and had also served as the country’s lead sponsor for nearly 3 years.
Furthermore, the government also cited important national concerns behind the ban, like money laundering and terrorism financing.
Nevertheless, while fans were looking forward to playing a season-long fantasy tournament, the league announced their own fantasy tournament.
The official account of the coveted league took to social media and shared a picture with the caption, “Be a part of the game like never before. The ultimate fantasy challenge is loading. Stay tuned.”
More updates and details about the new fantasy gaming feature are yet to be announced. However, the details are expected to be set forth soon.
When will the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League start?
The opening game of the season will be played on Saturday, March 28, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
Which teams will face each other in the first match of IPL 2026?
Defending champions Royal Challengers Bangalore will face Sunrisers Hyderabad in the season opener.
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