Star Sports to Broadcast IPL 2026
“The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is more than just our home ground; it is where our identity as a team truly comes alive,” said Rajesh Menon, CEO of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). This statement highlights the significance of the venue as RCB prepares to return to its home ground for the IPL 2026 season.
IPL 2026 is set to commence on March 28, 2026, with RCB scheduled to play five home games at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. This marks a significant moment for the team and its fans, as cricket at this iconic stadium had been suspended since June 2025 following a tragic stampede during RCB’s title celebrations.
Menon further emphasized the importance of their loyal supporters, stating, “Our fans have stood by us unconditionally, and they deserve the opportunity to watch their team compete at home.” The return to M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is seen as a pivotal step in restoring the team’s connection with its fanbase.
In addition to the five home games at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, RCB will also host two matches at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Raipur. The final of IPL 2026 will also take place at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, further solidifying its role in the tournament.
The backdrop of this return is marked by India’s recent triumph in the T20 World Cup, where they defeated New Zealand by 96 runs, clinching their third Men’s T20 World Cup title. Sanju Samson’s remarkable performance, scoring 89 runs in the final, contributed significantly to this achievement.
India’s victory not only showcased their dominance in T20 cricket but also made them the first team to win back-to-back Men’s T20 World Cups. Meanwhile, New Zealand continues to seek its first World Cup title, adding to the competitive spirit of the sport.
As the IPL 2026 season approaches, fans and players alike are eager to witness the unfolding of events at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, a venue that holds deep emotional significance for RCB and its supporters. The anticipation is palpable as preparations begin for what promises to be an exciting season.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any additional changes to the tournament format or schedule as the start date approaches. However, the focus remains on the return of RCB to their beloved home ground, a moment that many have been waiting for since the unfortunate events of 2025.
