IPL 2026 is around the corner, with matches starting on March 26 and running until May 31. This will be the 19th season of the Indian Premier League. A total of 10 teams will compete in 84 matches, including 80 league games and 4 playoff matches. Royal Challengers Bengaluru enter the season as defending champions after defeating Punjab Kings by 6 runs in the 2025 final.
In the league stage, each team will play 14 matches. The top four teams on the points table will qualify for the playoffs: Qualifier 1, the Eliminator, Qualifier 2, and the Final. At the auction, franchises spent a combined Rs 215.45 crore to build their squads.
Want to know where and how to watch IPL 2026 live? Read the full blog for complete details on live streaming and TV broadcast options.
Live-Streaming of IPL 2026 In India
In India, IPL 2026 matches are officially livestreamed on JioCinema, which was formed after the merger of JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar. It is the primary platform for watching IPL matches live in HD and 4 K. Viewers can choose commentary in multiple languages, including English, Hindi, and several regional languages.
JioHotstar works smoothly on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and laptops via the app or at JioHotstar.com. Some Jio prepaid recharge plans may also include bundled access to the platform, depending on the offer.
Steps to Stream IPL 2026 On JioHotstar
- Install the JioHotstar app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, or open jiohotstar.com on your browser.
- Register using your mobile number or email ID. Existing users can simply log in.
- Select a suitable plan and make payment using UPI, debit/credit card, or other available options.
- Navigate to the “Sports” tab and select the IPL 2026 match that is live.
- Ensure you have at least 5 Mbps of internet speed for smooth HD streaming.
Subscription Plans of JioHotstar
| Plan | Price (₹) | Devices |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile | 149/3 months | Mobile only |
| Super | 499/year | Mobile/Tablet |
| Premium | 1499/year | All devices |
Broadcasting of IPL 2026 in India
Star Sports Network will broadcast the IPL 2026 in India. If you watch on TV, you do not need a separate streaming plan. You just need an active DTH or cable connection with a sports pack.
Star Sports channels are available on most major DTH platforms like Tata Play, Airtel Digital TV, Dish TV, and JioTV+. If your subscription includes the sports pack, you can watch IPL matches at no additional cost beyond the pack price.
Here is the list of Star Sports channels that will broadcast IPL in different languages.
Main English Channels
- Star Sports 1 / Star Sports 1 HD
- Star Sports 2 / Star Sports 2 HD
- Star Sports 3
- Star Sports First
Hindi Channels
- Star Sports 1 Hindi / Star Sports 1 Hindi HD
- Star Sports 2 Hindi / Star Sports 2 Hindi HD
Regional Language Channels
- Star Sports 1 Tamil / Tamil HD
- Star Sports 1 Telugu / Telugu HD
- Star Sports 1 Kannada
You can watch via your DTH connection (Tata Play, Airtel Digital TV, or Dish TV) by activating a sports pack. Once the sports package is active, simply go to the Star Sports channels. Channel numbers may vary by provider, so check with your DTH operator for the exact channel number.
Subscription Plans of Star Sports
| Category | Name | Price (₹/month) |
|---|---|---|
| Channels | Star Sports 1 Hindi HD | 22.42 |
| Star Sports 1 HD | 22.42 | |
| Star Sports 1 Hindi | 22.42 | |
| Star Sports 1 | 22.42 | |
| Star Sports 1 Tamil HD | 22.42 | |
| Star Sports 1 Telugu HD | 22.42 | |
| Star Sports 1 Kannada | 22.42 | |
| Packs | Hindi Sports Mega HD | 72.35 |
| English Sports HD | 146.23 | |
| Hindi Sports Mega | 66.09 | |
| English Sports | 121.24 |
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Conclusion: Fans Can Watch IPL 2026 On JioHotstar and Star Sports
IPL 2026 will start from March 26 and continue until May 31, bringing two months of non-stop cricket action. Fans can watch all 84 matches live on JioHotstar or on the Star Sports Network via DTH and cable. With easy access on mobile, TV, and smart devices, no one has to miss a game.
