The wait is over! Cricket fans rejoice, as the much-anticipated schedule for the first 21 matches of the 17th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been unveiled. Mark your calendars, because the action kicks off on March 22nd, 2024, with the defending champions, Chennai Super Kings, taking on the ever-exciting Royal Challengers Bangalore in Chennai.

IPL 2024 Key Dates and Highlights:

• Tournament Dates: March 22nd, 2024 – May 29th, 2024 (full schedule to be announced)
• Matches: 74 matches across 6 weeks
• Venues: 10 cities across India (no matches in Delhi)
• Opening Match: CSK vs RCB at M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai (March 22nd, 7:30 PM IST)
• Format: Round-robin followed by playoffs and finals

IPL 2024 Schedule Glimpse:

The first two weeks promise a whirlwind of 21 matches, with each team playing a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 5 matches. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the exciting matchups:

• Doubleheaders: The opening weekend boasts two doubleheaders, with Punjab Kings hosting Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders facing Sunrisers Hyderabad.
• Rivalry Rekindled: The legendary CSK-RCB rivalry gets rekindled in the opening match, followed by the equally electrifying RCB-KKR clash in the second week.
• New Champions vs Veterans: The Gujarat Titans, 2022 champions, face the Mumbai Indians, five-time champions, in a battle of experience and youthful exuberance.
• Regional Rivalries: Local favorites like Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders will be eager to impress their home crowd with exciting performances.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the (Indian Premier League) 2024 schedule on Thursday.

The tournament will begin with defending champion Chennai Super Kings taking on Royal Challengers Bangalore in Chennai on March 22 at Chepauk.

The schedule was announced on Thursday only for the first 21 matches. The fixtures for the remaining games will be announced in due course.

Sportstar understands that besides the 10 cities that are announced as hosts for the first 21 games, the league stage will be played in Delhi, Dharamshala (Punjab Kings) and Guwahati (Rajasthan Royals). PBKS and RR will continue to play two home games each at their second homes.

IPL 2024 schedule (First 21 matches)

Match No	Fixture	Date	Venue	Time
1.	CSK vs RCB	March 22	Chennai	7:30 PM IST
2.	PBKS vs DC	March 23	Mohali	3:30 PM IST
3.	KKR vs SRH	March 23	Kolkata	7:30 PM IST
4.	RR vs LSG	March 24	Jaipur	3:30 PM IST
5.	GT vs MI	March 24	Ahmedabad	7:30 PM IST
6.	RCB vs PBKS	March 25	Bengaluru	7:30 PM IST
7.	CSK vs GT	March 26	Chennai	7:30 PM IST
8.	SRH vs MI	March 27	Hyderabad	7:30 PM IST
9.	RR vs DC	March 28	Jaipur	7:30 PM IST
10.	RCB vs KKR	March 29	Bengaluru	7:30 PM IST
11.	LSG vs PBKS	March 30	Lucknow	7:30 PM IST
12.	GT vs SRH	March 31	Ahmedabad	3:30 PM IST
13.	DC vs CSK	March 31	Visakhapatnam	7:30 PM IST
14.	MI vs RR	April 1	Mumbai	7:30 PM IST
15.	RCB vs LSG	April 2	Bengaluru	7:30 PM IST
16.	DC vs KKR	April 3	Visakhapatnam	7:30 PM IST
17.	GT vs PBKS	April 4	Ahmedabad	7:30 PM IST
18.	SRH vs CSK	April 5	Hyderabad	7:30 PM IST
19.	RR vs RCB	April 6	Jaipur	7:30 PM IST
20.	MI vs DC	April 7	Mumbai	3:30 PM IST
21.	LSG vs GT	April 7	Lucknow	7:30 PM IST

Where to Watch IPL 2024 and Follow?

The official broadcaster, Star Sports Network, will telecast all the matches in India. Additionally, streaming platforms like Disney+ Hotstar will provide live streaming options. Stay tuned to the official IPL website and social media channels for updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes action.

Beyond the Schedule:

While the initial schedule sets the stage, the excitement truly unfolds on the field. Anticipate thrilling last-over finishes, unexpected upsets, and individual brilliance that will keep you glued to your screens. Remember, the IPL is not just about cricket; it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings together communities, celebrates talent, and provides unforgettable entertainment.

So, mark your calendars, choose your favorite team, and get ready to witness the biggest cricket extravaganza of the year! The IPL 2024 promises to be a season packed with excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments.

Disclaimer: This article covers the currently announced schedule for the first 21 matches. The complete schedule for the remaining matches will be announced later.