The first phase of IPL 2026 has been announced, and defending champions RCB will start the tournament at home against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Here are the top 5 fixtures to look forward to during the first phase of IPL 2026. (Pics: BCCI)
Updated On: 2026-03-12 02:53 PM IST
Compiled by : Atharva Upasani
RCB vs SRH: The defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, host Sunrisers Hyderabad in the opening game. With heavy hitters like Phil Salt for RCB and the Abhishek Sharma-Ishan Kishan duo for SRH, the Chinnaswamy is expected to be a total run-fest.
MI vs KKR: Two of the most successful franchises meet on the very first Sunday. MI have not won the first game of the IPL season for more than 12 years. Can they break that duck against KKR?
RR vs CSK: The CSK v RR match will be about different narratives. After a massive pre-season trade, Ravindra Jadeja will be wearing the Rajasthan jersey against his former team, CSK, while Sanju Samson will be part of team CSK. Two former icons for each team will face each other.
RCB vs CSK: RCB vs CSK is one of the most anticipated games in the IPL. RCB has won 4 of the last 5 against CSK, but CSK still holds the historical lead. It’s the ultimate battle for regional bragging rights.
MI vs RCB: To close out Phase 1, the two most popular fanbases collide. Virat Kohli vs the Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede always delivers. Historically, MI has the edge (20-15), but RCB has been the "spoiler" lately, winning 3 of their last 5 meetings.
