Qualifier 1 will take place on May 26 at HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala. The Eliminator is set for May 27 at New International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh. Qualifier 2 will occur on May 29 at the same venue.

The final is scheduled for May 31 at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. This marks the fourth time in five years that Ahmedabad has hosted the IPL final.

BCCI officials stated, “Bengaluru was originally designated to host the Final. However, owing to certain requirements from the local association and authorities that were beyond the scope of BCCI’s established guidelines and protocols, the venue has been shifted and reassigned.” They also emphasized that special operational and logistical considerations necessitated the change.

Ahmedabad has become a key location for the IPL finale, having staged the decider in previous years: 2022, 2023, and 2025. The playoffs will feature a total of 70 league matches before determining the finalists.

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In a significant development for Zimbabwe cricket, India is scheduled to tour Zimbabwe in July 2026 to play a three-match T20 International series. The first match of the series will take place on July 23, 2026, at the Harare Sports Club.

This upcoming series comes on the heels of India’s last tour to Zimbabwe in 2024, where they contested five T20Is. The matches in 2026 are expected to generate considerable interest among fans, as Givemore Makoni, the Managing Director of Zimbabwe Cricket, highlighted the importance of these encounters.

Makoni stated, “Matches against India always generate enormous interest, and this is a fantastic opportunity for our players to test themselves against the world champions on home soil.” This sentiment reflects the anticipation surrounding the series, which is seen as a crucial platform for Zimbabwean players to showcase their skills.

Moreover, following the T20 series, Zimbabwe will visit India in January 2027 for a three-match One Day International series, marking a landmark occasion as it will be the first bilateral ODI series between the two nations in over two decades.

The ODIs are set to be held in Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Mumbai, further emphasizing the growing cricketing ties between India and Zimbabwe. Makoni remarked, “It is a landmark moment for Zimbabwe to be touring India again for a bilateral ODI series after more than two decades.”

In their recent encounters, India faced Zimbabwe during the Super Eight stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, where India secured a convincing 72-run victory, scoring 256 runs while taking four wickets.

Makoni also expressed optimism about the future, stating, “Following our encouraging performances at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, this series gives us a strong platform to build momentum and continue growing as a competitive force in international cricket.”

This T20I series against India is seen as an important opportunity for Zimbabwean players and fans alike, allowing them to engage with top-level cricket and gain valuable experience.

As the cricketing world looks forward to these matches, the excitement among Zimbabwean fans is palpable, with expectations high for competitive and high-quality cricket.

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As the Delhi Capitals prepare for the IPL 2026 season, the team is under the guidance of new head coach Hemang Badani, who emphasizes the importance of continuity and clarity within the squad. Last season, the Capitals finished fifth in the points table, falling short of their aspirations to secure the coveted IPL title. This year, the team is determined to approach the tournament with a more aligned and fearless mindset, seeking to improve their standings.

Before this development, the Delhi Capitals were grappling with inconsistency and a lack of cohesion, which contributed to their disappointing fifth-place finish in the previous season. The team struggled to find a rhythm, and the leadership dynamics were often questioned. However, with Axar Patel continuing as captain, there is a renewed focus on building a strong team environment. Patel has highlighted the significance of team clarity, stating, “What excites me the most is the energy in the group.”

The decisive moment for the Delhi Capitals came with the appointment of Hemang Badani as head coach. Badani, who has not been part of the previous environment, acknowledged the challenges faced by the team but expressed optimism about the current group. He stated, “I can’t really speak of what’s happened in the past because I haven’t been a part of this environment.” This fresh perspective is expected to bring new strategies and motivation to the squad.

In terms of player performance, the Capitals will rely heavily on the contributions of key players like Mitchell Starc, who was the team’s second-highest wicket-taker last season with 14 wickets in 11 matches. However, Starc is currently recovering from a shoulder and elbow injury, which raises concerns about his availability for the upcoming season. He remains committed to the team, stating, “I remain committed to join DC, am in continual communication updating the team and will continue to do what I can to be available for DC asap.”

The Capitals will kick off their IPL 2026 campaign against the Lucknow Super Giants on April 1. This match will serve as a critical test for the team as they aim to establish their presence early in the tournament. The squad also includes notable players such as Nitish Rana, KL Rahul, and David Miller, who are expected to play pivotal roles in the team’s performance.

Experts believe that the changes in leadership and strategy could significantly impact the Delhi Capitals’ performance this season. Former player Venugopal Rao emphasized the importance of continuity in leadership, stating, “Continuity in leadership is important and Axar brings that understanding of the team and the fans.” This sentiment is echoed by fans who are hopeful for a more cohesive and competitive team this year.

As the IPL 2026 season approaches, the Delhi Capitals are keen to shed their past struggles and emerge as a formidable force in the league. With Hemang Badani at the helm, the team is poised to make a strong statement and potentially secure their first IPL title. The upcoming matches will be crucial in determining whether the changes implemented will yield the desired results.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full impact of the changes on the team’s dynamics, but the optimism surrounding the new leadership is palpable. The Delhi Capitals are ready to embrace the challenges ahead and strive for success in the highly competitive IPL landscape.

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The IPL Auction 2026 was anticipated to be a showcase of talent, with franchises expected to aggressively bid for both established and emerging players. However, the outcome diverged sharply from these expectations, as notable names like Steve Smith and Maheesh Theekshana went unsold during the auction.

In a surprising turn of events, franchises collectively spent over ₹66.25 crore on uncapped players, indicating a strategic shift towards nurturing new talent. The auction featured a total of 1,355 registered players, but only 77 players made the cut, highlighting the competitive nature of the selection process.

The Chennai Super Kings made headlines by paying ₹14.2 crore each for Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma, reflecting their commitment to investing in promising players. This focus on uncapped talent marks a significant departure from previous auctions, where established stars typically commanded the highest bids.

As the IPL gears up for its new season, the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, are set to face off against Sunrisers Hyderabad in the opening match. The tournament is scheduled to run until May 31, and the Impact Player rule will continue to be a feature this season.

However, the excitement surrounding the auction was tempered by tragedy, as the BCCI announced the cancellation of the traditional opening ceremony due to a stampede that resulted in the deaths of 11 fans. In remembrance of the deceased, 11 seats in the stadium will remain vacant throughout the season, serving as a somber tribute.

This year’s auction results and the accompanying events have prompted discussions among experts regarding the evolving landscape of the IPL. The focus on uncapped players suggests a strategic pivot that may redefine team compositions in the coming years.

Overall, the IPL Auction 2026 reflects a blend of unexpected outcomes and a commitment to innovation, as franchises adapt to the changing dynamics of the league.

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The Indian Premier League (IPL) has a storied tradition of grand opening ceremonies, often featuring elaborate performances and celebrity appearances. However, the upcoming IPL 2026 season will break from this norm, as it will commence without an opening ceremony. This decision comes as a mark of respect for the victims of a tragic stampede that occurred during celebrations for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in June 2025, which resulted in 11 fatalities.

The stampede took place on June 4, 2025, when fans gathered outside the stadium to celebrate RCB’s title win. In light of this tragedy, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that the IPL 2026 will begin with a subdued atmosphere, foregoing the usual festivities. Instead of the anticipated music and performances, the opening match will carry a quiet tribute to those who lost their lives.

The opening match of IPL 2026 is scheduled for March 28, 2026, at 7:30 PM Indian Standard Time, featuring RCB against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Rajat Patidar will lead the RCB, while Ishan Kishan will step in as the captain for SRH due to Pat Cummins’ injury.

In a poignant gesture, 11 seats at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium will remain permanently vacant in memory of the victims, and a memorial plaque will be installed at the venue to honor those who died in the incident. BCCI officials stated, “The decision serves as a mark of respect for the 11 fans who lost their lives in a stampede outside the stadium during celebrations of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s title win in June last year.”

The absence of an opening ceremony aligns with the tributes planned around the fixture, emphasizing the league’s commitment to remembering the tragic event. This decision reflects a significant shift in the IPL’s approach to its opening, moving from a celebratory tone to one of remembrance.

As the IPL 2026 season progresses, which will continue until May 31, 2026, the focus will likely remain on honoring the victims while still celebrating the sport. The league is known for its vibrant atmosphere, but this year, the tone will be markedly different, prioritizing respect over revelry.

In summary, IPL 2026 will start with a quiet tribute rather than the usual fanfare, marking a significant change in the league’s tradition. This decision underscores the impact of the tragic events of 2025 and the importance of honoring those who lost their lives.

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United Spirits Ltd. has sold the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise for approximately $1.8 billion, a transaction that marks a significant milestone in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL). This sale values RCB at an estimated ₹18,776 crores (approximately $2 billion), setting a new benchmark in franchise valuations.

The previous highest sale values in IPL history were recorded for the Gujarat Titans at around $900 million and the Rajasthan Royals at $1.63 billion. The recent sale reflects the growing financial clout of IPL franchises and the increasing interest from investors.

A consortium that includes the Aditya Birla Group and Blackstone played a pivotal role in this landmark deal. As part of the agreement, the buyers will pay a 5% commission to the BCCI, further indicating the financial dynamics at play in the league.

In addition to the sale of RCB, ₹540 crores have been allocated for the establishment of a Women’s Premier League team, showcasing the IPL’s commitment to expanding its reach and inclusivity in cricket.

This sale is also indicative of a strategic shift for Diageo, as it moves towards focusing on its beverage alcohol business. The deal is expected to be finalized within six months, pending approvals from the Competition Commission of India and the BCCI.

However, details remain unconfirmed regarding how future revenue growth from media rights may be impacted, especially with potential decreases in per-match revenue. Additionally, the effect of any regulatory delays or integration issues on the excitement surrounding the sale remains unclear.

As the IPL continues to evolve, the sale of RCB stands as a testament to the league’s prominence in the global sports market and its ability to attract significant investments.

The post இந்தியன் பிரீமியர் லீக்: Indian Premier League: Royal Challengers Bangalore Sold for $1.8 Billion appeared first on newscri.

The demand for VIP tickets for Indian Premier League (IPL) matches has escalated among Karnataka Congress MLAs, significantly impacting the political landscape in the state. This push is notably supported by Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, who stated, “The MLAs have the right because they are part of the government.”

This demand comes at a time when the Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are undergoing ownership changes. Such transitions in ownership are not only pivotal for the teams involved but also have financial implications for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

The BCCI stands to gain from these ownership changes, receiving 5% of the total transfer value. This percentage translates to an estimated revenue for the BCCI ranging between ₹1,550 crore and ₹1,583 crore, highlighting the financial stakes involved in the IPL.

The Karnataka Congress MLAs’ request for VIP tickets underscores their position within the government and their expectations for privileges associated with their roles. This situation reflects ongoing tensions and negotiations within the political framework of Karnataka.

As the IPL season approaches, the outcome of these demands and the implications of the ownership changes will be closely monitored. The BCCI’s financial gains from these transactions may also influence future decisions regarding ticket allocations and privileges for government officials.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding how the BCCI will respond to the demands from the Karnataka Congress MLAs and whether any agreements will be reached concerning ticket allocations.

With the IPL being a significant event in Indian sports, the intersection of politics and cricket continues to shape the narrative around the league. The developments in Karnataka may set precedents for how political figures engage with sporting events in the future.

The post ഇന്ത്യന് പ്രീമിയര് ലീഗ്: Indian Premier League: Karnataka Congress MLAs Demand VIP Tickets appeared first on newscri.

Before the announcement made by the BCCI on March 26, 2026, expectations were high for the upcoming IPL season. Fans and teams alike were eager for the second phase of the TATA IPL 2026, which was anticipated to bring thrilling matches and intense competition.

However, the release of the schedule marked a decisive moment, revealing that the second phase would consist of 50 matches held from April 13 to May 24, 2026. This phase will take place across 12 venues in India, with the action kicking off in Hyderabad where Sunrisers Hyderabad will face Rajasthan Royals.

The immediate effects of this announcement have been significant for the teams involved. For instance, Punjab Kings will play their home matches in New Chandigarh and Dharamshala, while Rajasthan Royals will host four home games in Jaipur. Additionally, Royal Challengers Bengaluru will have three home matches in Bengaluru and two in Raipur.

Fans can look forward to eight double-header days, with afternoon matches starting at 03:30 PM IST and evening matches at 07:30 PM IST. This format aims to maximize viewer engagement and provide ample opportunities for fans to enjoy the matches.

As the league stage concludes, the final matches will feature Mumbai Indians against Rajasthan Royals in Mumbai and Kolkata Knight Riders versus Delhi Capitals in Kolkata on May 24, 2026. This setup promises to maintain the excitement leading up to the playoffs.

In a related development, Congress MLA Vijayananda Kashappanavar has requested the Karnataka government to provide four VIP tickets to each MLA for the IPL matches in Bengaluru, highlighting the political interest in the event. Legislative Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader has echoed this request, emphasizing the significance of the IPL in the region.

With the IPL matches in Bengaluru set to begin on March 28, 2026, the anticipation continues to build. The allocation of VIP tickets indicates the importance of these matches not just for fans, but also for local politicians.

Overall, the announcement of the IPL match schedule has created a buzz among teams, fans, and stakeholders alike. The upcoming matches are expected to draw significant crowds and media attention, further solidifying the IPL’s status as a premier cricketing event.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes to the schedule or venue arrangements as the season approaches. Stakeholders will be closely monitoring developments as the start date nears.

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The IPL 2026 schedule has been officially announced, with the tournament set to commence on March 28, 2026. The league will feature a total of 70 matches played across 12 venues in India, marking another exciting season for cricket fans.

The opening match will see Royal Challengers Bengaluru face off against Sunrisers Hyderabad. The league phase is scheduled to conclude on May 24, 2026, with the final match taking place in Bengaluru on May 31, 2026.

Notably, the tournament will include eight double-header days, where two matches will be played in a single day. Matches on single-header days will kick off at 7:30 PM IST, while afternoon fixtures on double-header days will start at 3:30 PM IST.

Home venues for the teams have also been confirmed. Punjab Kings will host their matches in New Chandigarh and Dharamshala, while Rajasthan Royals will play four home games in Jaipur. Additionally, Royal Challengers Bengaluru will have three home matches in Bengaluru and two in Raipur.

The venues for the playoffs are yet to be announced, as the BCCI delayed the full announcement until the election dates were finalized, ensuring clarity for the remainder of the season.

As the tournament approaches, cricket enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the matchups and the excitement that IPL 2026 promises to deliver. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any additional changes to the schedule or venues.

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The cricket IPL is gearing up for its 2026 season, with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) recently sold for a staggering $1.78 billion. This sale marks a significant shift in ownership, with the new consortium including the Aditya Birla Group, The Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone. Aryaman Vikram Birla has been appointed as chair of RCB under this new ownership structure.

In addition to the ownership changes, the IPL has introduced several new regulations that will impact gameplay. The Impact Player rule, which was first introduced in 2023, will remain in effect until at least 2027. This rule allows teams to substitute a player during a match, adding a strategic layer to the game. Furthermore, a ball change is now permitted after the 10th over of the second innings, primarily due to dew conditions.

Another notable change is the restriction on practice sessions, with no formal training allowed on match days under the new protocols. This decision aims to streamline team preparations and ensure that players are in optimal condition for the matches.

Player performance remains a critical focus as the season approaches. Rishabh Pant, who played 14 matches in IPL 2025, scored 269 runs at an average of 24.45 and a strike rate of 133.17. His performance has drawn attention, particularly from RCB captain Faf du Plessis, who emphasized the need for Pant to refine his game strategy. “I want him to be more of a high-impact player,” du Plessis stated, adding that Pant’s stroke play needs to be more structured.

Du Plessis further commented on the importance of Pant’s initial overs, saying, “For me, it is about his first six balls.” This highlights the pressure on Pant to deliver early in the innings, a crucial factor for RCB’s success in the upcoming season.

Historically, RCB achieved its first IPL title in 2025, a milestone that has raised expectations for the team in the following season. The combination of new ownership and a focus on player development suggests a promising future for the franchise.

As the 2026 season approaches, observers are keen to see how these changes will affect team dynamics and overall performance. The cricketing community is watching closely, eager for the season to unfold and for RCB to build on its recent success.

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