Defending champions Gujarat Titans to face CSK in IPL opener on March 31
Defending champions Gujarat Titans will begin their campaign against four-time champions Chennai Super Kings in the opening match of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season on March 31 in Ahmedabad. Hardik Pandya-led Titans won the title in their debut season last year. There will be a total of 52 round robin matches in the schedule announced by the BCCI (Indian Cricket Board).
In the first ‘double header’ (two matches in a day) of the season, Punjab Kings will face Kolkata Knight Riders in Mohali on April 1 while Lucknow Super Giants will take on Delhi Capitals in Lucknow. The ‘double headers’ will take place every Saturday and Sunday, while there will be single matches from Monday to Friday. The league matches will conclude on May 21 with a clash between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Titans in Bengaluru.
Matches were held in Mumbai, Pune and Ahmedabad in the previous phase but in the 16th season the same home and away format will return in which all the teams will play seven home matches in the league stage and the same number of matches away from the opponent team. . According to the BCCI, a total of 70 league stage matches will be played across 12 venues in 52 days. IPL 2023 will feature 18 ‘double headers’ with day matches starting at 3.30 pm and evening matches starting at 7.30 pm.
Rajasthan Royals will play their first two home matches in Guwahati and then the remaining home matches in Jaipur. Punjab Kings will play five of their home matches in Mohali while two home matches will be held in Dharamsala against Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals. The schedule and venue for the playoffs and finals will be announced later. The final will be played on May 28.
