Preparation for the IPL 2026 season is in full swing, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Faf du Plessis officially naming his four primary overseas players for the campaign. The lineup is headlined by England's Jacob Bethell, who recently starred in the T20 World Cup with a century against India, securing his spot as a top-tier recruit for the franchise. The BCCI has also released the schedule for the first phase of the tournament, which is set to begin on March 28, 2026, with RCB hosting the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the opening match. 

The upcoming season will feature 10 venues, including newer stadiums in Guwahati and New Chandigarh. Roster rumors are also heating up; Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has added Blessing Muzarabani, who left his commitments in the PSL to join the team, while Lucknow Super Giants are rumored to be pursuing left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie to replace the injured Wanindu Hasaranga. 

Major decisions are also expected regarding veteran players like MS Dhoni, who is confirmed to remain a vital part of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) squad for the 2026 season. The auction pool has seen notable activity as well, with Australian stars like Cameron Green expected to command high prices, while others like Glenn Maxwell and Moeen Ali have reportedly opted out of the initial bidding rounds.