The BCCI will release the IPL 2026 schedule in two separate phases due to Assembly Elections scheduled in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Assam that directly overlap with the tournament window running from March 26 to May 31, creating logistical challenges for security deployment and venue availability at key IPL stadiums, including Eden Gardens and MA Chidambaram Stadium.
Why Two-Phase Schedule Announcement?
The strategic delay allows BCCI to finalize the first 2-3 weeks of fixtures in non-poll-bound states while waiting for the Election Commission of India to announce exact polling and counting dates.
Once ECI provides clarity on regional poll schedules, BCCI can slot remaining matches into windows that don’t clash with voting days.
Phase 1 announcement is expected by late February, covering the first 20-25 matches. Phase 2 will likely come in mid-March after the ECI notification provides complete election calendar details.
Security Deployment Creates Major Challenge
The primary hurdle is deployment of security forces. Assembly Elections in West Bengal (294 seats) and Tamil Nadu (234 seats) require massive security mobilizations.
Since local police and Central Armed Police Forces are prioritized for polling and counting duties, they cannot provide necessary security arrangements for high-profile IPL matches at venues like Eden Gardens and Chepauk Stadium.
KKR Faces Unique Venue Dilemma
Kolkata Knight Riders face a particularly difficult situation. When Eden Gardens is unavailable, KKR typically shifts to their secondary home in Guwahati’s Barsapara Stadium.
However, since Assam is also holding simultaneous Assembly Elections, Guwahati is no longer a guaranteed backup option, forcing the franchise to consider alternative venues like Cuttack or Ranchi.
Post-T20 World Cup Stadium Transition
Five major IPL stadiums, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai, are currently hosting ICC T20 World Cup 2026 matches.
A phased schedule provides ground staff additional time to transition pitches and stadium branding from international tournament standards to IPL requirements.
