Finalists RCB, PBKS to begin IPL 2026 separately

The Indian Premier League (IPL) Season 19 opener will not feature the defending champions and runners-up from the 2025 edition. Finalists Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) are playing separately on the first two days of the season.

Traditionally, the league prefers a high-profile start to the tournament, often involving the defending champions. This year, the curtain-raiser could be between champions RCB and the popular Chennai Super Kings (CSK). According to brand valuation reports, CSK, RCB, Mumbai Indians, and Kolkata Knight Riders are considered among the top four marquee sides of the league.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has informed franchises that the annual meeting with captains and coaches will be held in Mumbai on March 25, with the agenda to be shared later. Key changes for the upcoming season are typically discussed at this meeting.

The BCCI also announced that the captains' promotional shoot will be held in New Delhi on March 15.