IPL 2026 Schedule Release — Fixtures, Venues and Lock Windows

What the desk reads first

The fixture list is read in three passes: the date blocks, the venue map and the lock windows for fantasy contests.

Date blocks determine how many matches cluster in one week. A back-to-back stretch changes captaincy math.

Venue map determines dew, pitch and boundary behaviour for every ground on the calendar.

Lock windows determine when the XI must be final. Some contests allow a captain swap in the same window.

These are the editorial bottom lines, not a recap. Each one stands alone and links out to the supporting guide.

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A back-to-back match block changes captaincy math: the same player may not be in both XIs. The desk flags the stretch on every fixture release.

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Dew, pitch and boundary behaviour are the biggest late breakers in any fantasy contest. The venue file is updated as the schedule lands.

/01Verified source
The fixture list is sourced from the official BCCI release. The desk links the source on the hub.
/02Fantasy implications
Fantasy implications are noted separately from the news itself so the two are easy to read in sequence.

Ready when you are