Which two teams will clash in opening match of IPL 2026? Exploring the possibilities
The first match of the IPL 2026 will be played on March 28.
The 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will commence on March 28, as confirmed by the broadcasters Star Sports. The fixtures of the tournament have not been announced yet. However, the Qualifier 1 and the season final may be played in Bengaluru.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is likely to announce the dates and fixtures in two phases due to the upcoming assembly elections in Assam, Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the board will announce the schedule, keeping the election dates in mind.
The dates for the initial 20 days will likely be announced on March 12. Before the schedule is announced, let’s take a look at which two teams are likely to play the opening match of the upcoming season.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) vs Punjab Kings (PBKS)
As per several reports, defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru are highly likely to play the opening game of the 2026 edition of the IPL. The champions might kickstart the next season, as per tradition.
After almost two decades of unfavourable results, the Royal Challengers will finally walk into the new season as the defending champions. RCB have been a part of the opening fixture six times.
Meanwhile, two-time finalists the Punjab Kings are expected to inaugurate the 2026 season of the Indian Premier League with a fiery rematch of last year’s summit clash. The official announcement of the fixture has yet to be made; however, as per tradition, the encounter is the most likely. PBKS have never been featured in the first game of the season.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) vs Mumbai Indians (MI)
Five-time champions, the Mumbai Indians, can potentially get a chance to replace the Punjab Kings as RCB’s opponent in the first game of the season.
However, the chances are bleak. The Indians, who kick-started eight campaigns, finished fourth in the league last year and were eventually eliminated in qualifier 2 by PBKS.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) finished as the runners-up in 2024 and 2022, respectively. However, they were not a part of the opening match of the subsequent season. Instead, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) were given the opportunity.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) vs Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
Chennai Super Kings have played the opening game nine times. They finished 10th in the 2025 season, tumbling out of the majority of their chances to play in the first game.
Nevertheless, due to Sanju Samson’s recent form, CSK could potentially get a chance to kick-start the new season against RCB. If that happens, fans will get to witness the replay of the 2019 opener.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) vs Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
Kolkata Knight Riders have featured in the season opener seven times, and they faced RCB in last year’s inaugural game as the defending champions. However, with an eighth-place finish last season, they are unlikely to play in this year’s opening game.
Which team won the IPL last season?
RCB defeated PBKS to win their maiden last in 2025.
Which team has played the IPL opener the most times?
CSK have played the IPL opener nine times, the most by any team.
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