IPL 2026: Star Sports confirms start date; Defending champions RCB to play home games in Bengaluru

Ahmedabad: The wait for the world’s biggest T20 league is almost over. Broadcaster Star Sports officially confirmed on Sunday that the IPL 2026 season will kick off on March 28, 2026. The announcement was made just moments before the much-anticipated India vs New Zealand ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

While the full IPL 2026 fixtures and match dates are still awaited from the BCCI, the news has already sent cricket fans into a frenzy, especially supporters of the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

Will RCB play at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in IPL 2026?

Yes. KSCA Secretary Santosh Menon confirmed that the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium will host five of RCB’s home games. More importantly, the iconic Bengaluru venue has been selected to host the IPL 2026 Final and one playoff match.

This marks a significant emotional return for the franchise. Cricket at the stadium had been suspended since June 2025 following a tragic stampede during RCB’s title celebrations. After rigorous safety audits and infrastructure upgrades by the Karnataka Police and the KSCA, the gates are finally reopening.

Where will RCB play their other home matches?

While Bengaluru remains the primary hub, RCB will take their "home" advantage to a neutral territory for two games. The Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, has been designated as the second home ground for the defending champions this season.

"The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is more than just our home ground; it is where our identity as a team truly comes alive. The energy our fans bring to Bengaluru has always been a driving force for our players, inspiring them through every phase of the game. Our fans have stood by us unconditionally, and they deserve the opportunity to watch their team compete at home," Rajesh Menon, CEO, Royal Challengers Bengaluru.