IPL 2026 Schedule Remains Firm in Assam, Guwahati to Host Three Matches
In a significant development for cricket fans, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that the IPL 2026 schedule in Assam will proceed without any alterations, despite the upcoming state elections. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia assured that Guwahati is fully prepared to host three matches involving the Rajasthan Royals, with no rescheduling required.
Election Schedule and IPL Matches Align Smoothly
The Election Commission of India announced on Sunday that Assam will hold its elections in a single phase on April 9. This date falls between two IPL matches scheduled in Guwahati, raising initial concerns about potential conflicts. However, Saikia clarified that after discussions with Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma and Guwahati Commissioner of Police Partha Sarathi Mahanta, both officials have guaranteed that the matches can be conducted seamlessly without any changes to the timetable.
According to the released schedule for the first 20 matches of IPL 2026, Guwahati is set to host two matches around the election period. The Rajasthan Royals will face the Mumbai Indians on April 7, followed by a clash with Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 10. Additionally, Guwahati will kick off the Rajasthan Royals' campaign with an opening match against Chennai Super Kings on March 30.
Assurances from State Authorities Ensure Smooth Operations
Saikia emphasized that the state authorities have provided strong assurances regarding security and logistical support. "There will be no rescheduling of IPL matches in Guwahati in Assam," he stated. "I have already spoken to the honourable Assam Chief Minister and the Guwahati Commissioner of Police. Both have assured me that they will manage to conduct the matches, and there's no need to change the schedule." This coordination highlights the effective planning between cricket administrators and local government bodies to avoid disruptions.
Broader Election Context and IPL Schedule Updates
The Election Commission's announcement also detailed schedules for other poll-bound states: Kerala and Puducherry will vote on April 9, Tamil Nadu on April 23, and West Bengal in two phases on April 23 and 29. Saikia noted that the BCCI is in preliminary discussions with the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association and the Cricket Association of Bengal to finalize the remaining IPL matches in these regions. "In due course, we will announce the schedule of the remaining IPL matches," he said. "After some preliminary discussions with the concerned associations, we will announce the remaining leg of the IPL. However, we can't give you a timeline. So, the IPL goes on smoothly and seamlessly."
This announcement underscores the BCCI's commitment to maintaining the IPL's integrity and fan experience, even amidst electoral activities. Cricket enthusiasts can look forward to uninterrupted action in Guwahati, with the Rajasthan Royals set to deliver exciting performances in their three scheduled matches.
