IPL Expands to 84 Matches in Historic 19th Edition
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Mumbai
- Mar 18, 2026
- 561
Exactly ten days later, on the evening of March 28, as the coin is tossed at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, India will witness the commencement of not merely a tournament, but a grand sporting spectacle. The 19th edition of the Indian Premier League arrives in its most expansive and extravagant form yet, promising a season unlike any in its 18-year history.
This year, a total of 84 matches will be contested among 10 teams, making it the largest edition ever, surpassing the previous maximum of 74 matches. Over the course of 64 days, fans will be treated to a relentless display of power-hitting and high-octane cricket across 13 venues nationwide. All franchises have intensified their preparations, with players striving to attain peak match fitness through rigorous pre-season training camps. Notably, the tournament begins just 20 days after the conclusion of the World Cup, prompting the BCCI and franchises to closely monitor the workload of key players.
Chennai’s captain Ruturaj, alongside MS Dhoni and several teammates, commenced training at the High Performance Center in Navellore from March 1. Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bangalore initiated their camp as early as February 10, featuring players such as Jitesh Sharma, Venkatesh Iyer, and Suyash Sharma. Gujarat’s preparations in Nathdwara began on February 16 under the leadership of Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan, following an earlier camp in January. Punjab Kings trained in Abu Dhabi from February 8 to 14 before beginning their second phase of preparation. Lucknow focused on conditioning its fast bowlers in Durban before assembling for its primary camp at home. Other franchises, including Sunrisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Delhi Capitals, have also initiated their respective camps.
The ‘Big Three’ and a Possible Final Chapter
In the storied history of the IPL, three icons have come to define the league’s legacy—MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli. This season could potentially mark the final occasion on which all three share the stage.
Dhoni’s Evolving Role
Chennai’s talisman, MS Dhoni, began training at the MA Chidambaram Stadium weeks in advance. At 44, speculation is rife that this could be his farewell season. Yet, his fitness levels and striking prowess continue to defy age, suggesting he remains more than capable of competing with younger players. Franchise insiders indicate that he may assume a more strategic “impact player” role this season.
Rohit’s Renewed Intensity
Rohit Sharma has rejoined the Mumbai Indians camp, displaying renewed aggression and sharpness in the nets. Having reportedly shed 11 kilograms, he appears leaner and more dynamic, reigniting discussions among experts about his role as a full-time batter rather than an impact substitute.
Kohli Under the Spotlight
For Virat Kohli, the challenge is distinct—defending Royal Challengers Bangalore’s maiden IPL title. No longer underdogs, RCB now carry the weight of expectation as reigning champions. Kohli, who began preparations well in advance, is expected to rejoin the squad shortly, fully focused on sustaining their winning momentum.
Expanded Venues and Growing Reach
This season extends beyond traditional host cities, with matches scheduled across 13 venues. Rajasthan Royals will play select games in Guwahati alongside Jaipur, tapping into the growing cricket fervour in the North-East, further amplified by Riyan Parag’s leadership. Punjab Kings will split their home fixtures between New Chandigarh and Dharamshala, while Royal Challengers Bangalore have adopted Raipur as their secondary base.
Injury Setbacks Ahead of the Season
Kolkata Knight Riders may be without fast bowler Harshit Rana for a significant portion of the tournament following knee surgery sustained prior to the T20 World Cup. Additionally, Royal Challengers Bangalore’s Josh Hazlewood and Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Pat Cummins are expected to miss the initial matches as they recover from injuries. In Cummins’ absence, Ishan Kishan is a potential candidate to assume leadership responsibilities.
Return of the Double Round-Robin Format
In a notable shift, the IPL reverts to its original and most equitable structure—the double round-robin format. Each team will face every other team twice, once at home and once away. Returning after four years, this format eliminates disparities caused by group divisions, ensuring that progression to the playoffs is determined purely by consistent performance against all opponents.
Technological Advancements in Broadcasting
This season will also usher in a new era of technological innovation. Artificial intelligence will play a pivotal role in broadcasting, enabling viewers to customise their experience with hyper-personalised camera angles, including the option to track individual players throughout a match. The introduction of smart balls embedded with electronic chips—already tested by Kookaburra—and the potential deployment of sensor-equipped pitches will provide real-time data on factors such as moisture and bounce, enhancing both analysis and viewer engagement.