The IPL 2026 playoffs will unfold across three venues: Mullanpur, Dharamsala, and Ahmedabad. However, in a surprising turn of events, the final, originally slated for Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium, has been shifted to Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi International Cricket Stadium. This change arises from local association requirements that surpassed the guidelines established by the BCCI.
Ahmedabad has become a familiar setting for IPL finals, having hosted the climactic match in three of the last four years—2022, 2023, and 2025. The shift reflects not only logistical considerations but also operational challenges faced by local cricket authorities.
Key playoff dates:
- Qualifier 1: May 26 at HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala
- Eliminator: May 27 at New International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh
- Qualifier 2: May 29 at New International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh
- Final: May 31 at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad
BCCI officials stated, “Bengaluru was originally designated to host the Final. However, owing to certain requirements from the local association and authorities that were beyond the scope of BCCI’s established guidelines and protocols, the venue has been shifted and reassigned.” This adjustment has sparked reactions from fans and teams alike.
The playoffs will be conducted across these venues this season due to special operational and logistical considerations. With a total of 70 league matches played prior to the playoffs, teams like Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings will be keenly watching how these changes affect their playoff aspirations.
The anticipation for this year’s playoffs is palpable as teams gear up for crucial matches. Observers are curious about how this venue change might influence team performances and fan turnout—elements that are vital for the atmosphere surrounding such high-stakes games.
