IPL 2026 Phase 2 Schedule: "El Clasico" Double-Header & RCB’s Surprise Move to Raipur

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IPL 2026 Phase 2 Schedule: "El Clasico" Double-Header & RCB’s Surprise Move to Raipur



The BCCI has officially dropped the bombshell schedule for the second leg of IPL 2026! Starting April 13, the tournament shifts into high gear as the battle for the top four intensifies. From the mouth-watering CSK vs MI double-clash to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) taking their home defense to the heart of Chhattisgarh, this phase is packed with tactical shifts and high-altitude drama.

The "El Clasico" of Cricket: CSK vs MI Twice in 10 Days


For the purists, the biggest highlight is the double face-off between the two five-time champions. While many expected a single meeting, the schedule confirms these heavyweights will clash twice in quick succession:

  • April 23: Mumbai Indians host Chennai Super Kings at the iconic Wankhede Stadium.

  • May 2: The rivalry moves to the spin-friendly tracks of Chepauk, Chennai.

  • RCB’s Strategic Shift: Defending Champions Head to Raipur

In a surprising move for the fans in Karnataka, the defending champions RCB will play their final "home" stretch away from the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Instead, they will bring the "Go Green" fever to Raipur.

  • May 10: RCB vs Mumbai Indians (Raipur)

  • May 13: RCB vs Kolkata Knight Riders (Raipur)

Before heading to Raipur, RCB will host their only game against CSK in Bengaluru on April 5, a match already being touted as the "Ticket of the Year."

Himalayan Showdowns: Dharamsala Welcomes the Stalwarts


The HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala, known for its breathtaking views and pace-friendly conditions, will host three crucial matches for the Punjab Kings (PBKS):

  • May 11: vs Delhi Capitals

  • May 14: vs Mumbai Indians

  • May 17: vs RCB (A rare afternoon thriller in the hills)

The Road to the Playoffs: Final on May 24


The league stage concludes on May 24 with a high-stakes double-header. Mumbai Indians take on Rajasthan Royals in a potential "do-or-die" match in Mumbai, while KKR hosts Delhi Capitals at Eden Gardens to wrap up the points table.


IPL 2026 Phase 2: Quick FAQ


Q1: Which teams play the most afternoon matches?

👉 SRH, DC, PBKS, and LSG are scheduled for three afternoon fixtures each to balance the summer broadcast slots.

Q2: Is RCB playing any matches in Chennai this year?

👉 No. Interestingly, RCB will not travel to Chennai during the league stage; their only clash with CSK is in Bengaluru.

Q3: When is the final match of the league stage?

👉 The league stage ends on May 24, 2026, with MI vs RR and KKR vs DC.



IPL 2026 Schedule PDF, CSK vs MI 2026 Dates, RCB Raipur Matches

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