Quick Answer
IPL 2026 runs from March to May 2026 featuring all ten franchises across 74 matches. Key storylines: Mumbai Indians' rebuilt batting line-up, Chennai Super Kings' post-Dhoni transition, and the emergence of new overseas talent. The season concludes with a Final in late May 2026.
The Ten IPL 2026 Teams
| Franchise | Home City | Captain (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai Indians | Mumbai | Hardik Pandya |
| Chennai Super Kings | Chennai | Ruturaj Gaikwad |
| Kolkata Knight Riders | Kolkata | Shreyas Iyer |
| Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Bengaluru | Faf du Plessis |
| Delhi Capitals | Delhi | Axar Patel |
| Sunrisers Hyderabad | Hyderabad | Pat Cummins |
| Rajasthan Royals | Jaipur | Sanju Samson |
| Punjab Kings | Chandigarh | Shikhar Dhawan |
| Gujarat Titans | Ahmedabad | Shubman Gill |
| Lucknow Super Giants | Lucknow | KL Rahul |
Key Storylines for IPL 2026
Chennai Super Kings: Life After Dhoni
MS Dhoni's eventual transition from player to mentor role at CSK has been one of cricket's most anticipated storylines. Ruturaj Gaikwad's captaincy earned respect in 2025 but not the trophy. In 2026, CSK's batting depth and bowling variety remain class-leading, but the side faces the challenge of winning without the psychological security Dhoni's presence always provided.
Mumbai Indians: Power Reset
After a difficult 2024, Mumbai Indians rebuilt significantly at the 2025 auction. Hardik Pandya's captaincy stabilised, and additions around Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav have made MI the team most analysts tip for 2026.
Emerging Indian Stars
Rinku Singh, Abhishek Sharma, and Riyan Parag are among the players whose IPL 2026 performances will determine their international futures.
Players to Watch in IPL 2026
Jasprit Bumrah (Mumbai Indians)
When fit, still the most dangerous bowler in T20 cricket globally. His death-overs yorker remains virtually unplayable in franchise cricket.
Suryakumar Yadav (Mumbai Indians)
The world's top-ranked T20 batter brings inventive 360-degree striking that makes him uniquely difficult to contain.
Pat Cummins (Sunrisers Hyderabad)
The Australia Test captain continues to demonstrate that elite pace bowling translates directly into T20 success.
Travis Head (Sunrisers Hyderabad)
After devastating World Cup final innings in 2023 and 2024, Head brings extraordinary big-match temperament to SRH's top order.
Title Contenders
- Mumbai Indians — deepest batting, best pace attack when fit
- Gujarat Titans — consistent, well-coached, Shubman Gill maturing as captain
- Chennai Super Kings — experience and depth unmatched, never write off CSK
- Sunrisers Hyderabad — highest-scoring team in 2024, attacking philosophy now embedded
Frequently Asked Questions
When does IPL 2026 start?
IPL 2026 begins in late March 2026. The exact fixture list is released by the BCCI approximately six weeks before the season opener.
How many matches are in IPL 2026?
IPL 2026 features 74 matches across the group stage, eliminator, two qualifier matches, and the Final.
Who won IPL 2025?
Kolkata Knight Riders won IPL 2025, defeating Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Final — their third IPL title overall.
How can I watch IPL 2026 in the UK?
IPL 2026 broadcast rights in the UK are held by Sky Sports Cricket, which streams all matches live. A Sky subscription is required.