IPL 2026 Playoffs: Full Schedule, Venues, and Match Timings

The IPL 2026 playoffs are set, and cricket fans across India are gearing up for an exciting finish to the season. Four teams — Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gujarat Titans, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Rajasthan Royals — have booked their spots in the knockout stage. Rajasthan Royals secured the final berth dramatically, defeating Mumbai Indians in their last league match to edge into the top four.

Qualifier 1 and Eliminator Kick Off the Action

The playoffs begin on May 26 with Qualifier 1 at the picturesque Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala. Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru face Gujarat Titans in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter. The winner earns a direct ticket to the final, while the loser drops into Qualifier 2 for another shot at glory. A day later, on May 27, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals clash in the Eliminator at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh. For the losing side, the tournament ends there.

The Road to the Final in Ahmedabad

Qualifier 2 takes place on May 29 in New Chandigarh, where the Eliminator winner meets the Qualifier 1 loser. The survivor advances to the grand final. The IPL 2026 Final is scheduled for May 31 at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad — the world’s largest cricket venue — making it a fitting stage for the season’s ultimate showdown.

All playoff matches begin at 7:30 PM IST. With defending champions RCB looking formidable and fresh challengers like GT and SRH in the mix, the 2026 playoffs are set to deliver edge-of-the-seat cricket right through to the final.