IPL 2026 Kicks Off: RCB vs SRH in Bengaluru Tonight

The 2026 Indian Premier League kicks off today with a high-profile clash between defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium . The tournament opener comes amid an austere atmosphere , as RCB remembers the tragic stampede last year that claimed 11 fans’ lives during the team’s title celebrations. In a heartfelt tribute, the Karnataka State Cricket Association has left 11 permanent seats empty , and RCB players wore jerseys with “ No. 11 ” during practice sessions.

On the field, RCB face challenges in their bowling department . Key pacers Josh Hazlewood and Yash Dayal will miss the start of the season, with Hazlewood completing rehabilitation in Australia and Dayal sidelined due to ongoing legal issues. The team will rely on Bhuvneshwar Kumar , Krunal Pandya , Suyash Sharma , and Mangesh Yadav to lead the attack. SRH, meanwhile, will be without their regular captain Pat Cummins , who is recovering from a back injury. Ishan Kishan steps in as stand-in skipper, a decision backed by head coach Daniel Vettori , who praised Kishan as a confident player and leader with experience in the U19s and state teams.

Both teams will hope to compensate for their bowling limitations with strong batting line-ups . RCB boast stalwarts like Virat Kohli , Tim David , Phil Salt , and captain Rajat Patidar , while SRH can rely on Kishan, Travis Head , Abhishek Sharma , and Heinrich Klaasen . The clash promises to be a high-scoring affair , with both sides looking to start the season on a winning note.

Beyond today’s opener, IPL 2026 also sees traditional powerhouses like Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, and Kolkata Knight Riders seeking to regain lost glory, while younger teams and uncapped players aim to make a mark. For Kohli and Rohit Sharma , the tournament is another stage to showcase their enduring class and leadership , even as they inspire the next generation.

The first match of the 2026 IPL is more than just a game; it is a blend of tribute, competition, and anticipation , setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting two-month cricketing spectacle.

Match:

RCB vs SRH

Venue:

M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru

Start Time:

7:30 PM IST