IPL 2026 starts in three weeks. Auctions are done, squads are set, and four major shifts will define the season.
1. CSK's leadership transition
Dhoni officially handed captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad after a one-season trial. The franchise also drafted three uncapped Tamil-Nadu spinners — a clear pivot to younger, home-grown talent.
2. The new uncapped-player rule
Each team must field at least two uncapped Indian players in the playing XI all season. Expect U-23 talent to get major minutes — and audition for World Cup squads on the way.
3. MI's bowling overhaul
Mumbai paid record sums for two overseas death-overs specialists after a leak-prone 2025 powerplay. Bumrah remains the anchor; the new signings ease his workload.
4. Trade window winners
RCB picked up two finishers in mid-season trades. KKR offloaded surplus all-rounders for a quality leg-spinner. Punjab's gamble on three veterans for one final tilt looks the most polarising.
5. Impact Player rule — staying or going?
BCCI hinted at scrapping it after this season. Watch how franchises use it — aggressively to win games, or conservatively to argue for keeping it.
First match: Bengaluru vs Mumbai, 22 March.