The wait is finally over as the Indian Premier League (IPL) is all set to return for its 17th edition on March 22nd, 2024. The much-anticipated tournament will kick off with a blockbuster clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Chennai, promising an electrifying start to the cricketing festival. The schedule is released
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This year’s IPL schedule has been partially unveiled due to the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in India. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed the fixtures for the first 17 days, with the remaining matches to be announced after the election dates are finalized.
Chennai Takes Center Stage in the Opener
The opening match on March 22nd will see the defending champions, CSK, led by the ever-charismatic MS Dhoni, take on Virat Kohli’s RCB at the iconic Chepauk Stadium. This promises to be a high-voltage encounter, with both teams boasting star-studded lineups and a history of thrilling matches.
It's csk vs Rcb on 22nd March
We're ready to own csk at Chepauk 🔥#IPL2024 pic.twitter.com/RAY1lQBVRV
— Mehak Sharma (@mehaksharm18) February 22, 2024
The first two weeks of the IPL will be packed with action, featuring 21 matches across different venues. Cricket fans can expect a double-header on the second day, with Punjab Kings taking on Delhi Capitals in Mohali and Kolkata Knight Riders welcoming Sunrisers Hyderabad to the Eden Gardens.
The second double-header will see Hardik Pandya leading Mumbai Indians in their home city of Ahmedabad against Gujarat Titans, while Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants lock horns in Jaipur. Additionally, Delhi Capitals will be playing their first two home matches in Vizag due to scheduling conflicts.
IPL 2024 Schedule (First 17 Days)
| Date | Match | Venue | Time (IST) |
| March 22 | CSK vs RCB | Chennai | 7:30 PM |
| March 23 | PBKS vs DC | Mohali | 3:30 PM |
| March 23 | KKR vs SRH | Kolkata | 7:30 PM |
| March 24 | RR vs LSG | Jaipur | 3:30 PM |
| March 24 | GT vs MI | Ahmedabad | 7:30 PM |
| March 25 | RCB vs PBKS | Bengaluru | 7:30 PM |
| March 26 | CSK vs GT | Chennai | 7:30 PM |
| March 27 | SRH vs MI | Hyderabad | 7:30 PM |
| March 28 | RR vs DC | Jaipur | 7:30 PM |
| March 29 | RCB vs KKR | Bengaluru | 7:30 PM |
| March 30 | LSG vs PBKS | Lucknow | 7:30 PM |
| March 31 | GT vs SRH | Ahmedabad | 3:30 PM |
| March 31 | DC vs CSK | Visakhapatnam | 7:30 PM |
| April 1 | MI vs RR | Mumbai | 7:30 PM |
| April 2 | RCB vs LSG | Bengaluru | 7:30 PM |
| April 3 | DC vs KKR | Visakhapatnam | 7:30 PM |
| April 4 | GT vs PBKS | Ahmedabad | 7:30 PM |
| April 5 | SRH vs CSK | Hyderabad | 7:30 PM |
| April 6 | RR vs RCB | Jaipur | 7:30 PM |
| April 7 | MI vs DC | Mumbai | 3:30 PM |
| April 7 | LSG vs GT | Lucknow | 7:30 PM |
While the initial excitement of the IPL schedule is undeniable, the uncertainty surrounding the remaining matches due to the Lok Sabha elections does create a sense of anticipation. The BCCI has assured fans that they are working closely with the government and local authorities to finalize the schedule, taking into account the polling dates.
Despite the scheduling challenges, the IPL 2024 promises to be a thrilling season filled with cricketing action, entertainment, and moments of joy for fans across the globe. With its diverse mix of players, passionate fanbases, and unpredictable matches, the IPL is more than just a cricket tournament – it’s a cricketing festival that unites millions.
