After a thrilling 2025 IPL season, all eyes are on the 2026 season which is now just over three months away.
The race for IPL 2026 promises to be one of the most competitive yet. The teams will no doubt make bold moves in the mini-auction 2025 on Tuesday December 16, scouting emerging talent and reshuffling coaching staff.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally broke their title drought in 2025, and the race for the next champion is likely going to be wide open. The betting markets are already buzzing with fresh odds and predictions.
Who won the IPL 2025?
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) won the IPL 2025 title, claiming their first-ever IPL trophy after 18 seasons. In a thrilling final at Ahmedabad, RCB defeated Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 6 runs. RCB posted 190/9 in 20 overs, with captain Rajat Patidar leading the charge and Virat Kohli contributing a steady 43.
Punjab Kings, despite a valiant 61 off 30 balls from Shashank Singh, finished at 184/7 in their 20 overs. Key bowling performances for RCB included Krunal Pandya (2/17) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (2/38), who took crucial wickets at the death overs.
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When is IPL 2026 season?
The IPL 2026 season will start on March 15, 2026. The dates have been communicated to franchises and are expected to hold unless there are exceptional circumstances, with the final due to take place on May 31, 2026. The 19th edition of the tournament has also expanded up to 84 matches, from 74 in previous seasons.
IPL 2026 auction date
The IPL 2026 season will feature a mini auction rather than a mega auction. This year, 350 players will be going under the hammer in the mini auction set for Tuesday 16 December. This is confirmation of the tremd of auctions being held between November and December of the preceding year.
IPL 2026 winner odds and latest betting
The latest betting odds for IPL 2026:
Team | Best Odds |
Mumbai Indians | |
Royal Challengers Bengaluru | |
Gujarat Titans | |
Punjab Kings | |
Delhi Capitals | 9/1 with Virgin Bet |
Lucknow Super Giants | 10/1 with Virgin Bet |
Kolkata Knight Riders | |
| Sunrisers Hyderabad | 9/1 with Bet365 |
Chennai Super Kings | |
Rajasthan Royals |
* Odds correct at time of publish but subject to change