The 17th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), also known as TATA IPL 2024, is set to enthral cricket fans from tonight, i.e. Friday, March 22.
The action kicks off with a high-voltage clash between the defending champions, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the iconic M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai at 8 PM IST.
While the complete schedule is yet to be revealed, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has released the details for the initial 21 matches.
All 10 teams will play 14 games each, following a traditional home-and-away format. Victories will be rewarded with two points, while ties settled by a super over. In case of a washout, both teams will share a point.
The top four teams at the league stage’s conclusion will progress to the playoffs. The team that finishes atop the table will face the second-placed team in Qualifier 1, with the winner booking a direct ticket to the Finals. The loser of Qualifier 1 will have another shot at booking a place in the final through Qualifier 2. The winner of the Eliminator, played between the third and fourth-placed team will then take on the loser of Qualifier 1 in a do-or-die match, with the victor advancing to the Finals.
This season also brings a wave of exciting leadership changes in some franchises. Mumbai Indians (MI) witness the return of their prodigal son, Hardik Pandya, who will lead the five-time IPL champions. Gujarat Titans (GT) trusted the young Indian batting sensation, Shubman Gill, appointing him as their captain. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have secured the services of Pat Cummins, the second-most expensive IPL buy ever, as their new skipper. The orange army will hope to leverage the experience of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023-winning captain, as they aim for their second IPL trophy. Finally, Delhi Capitals (DC) welcome back their leader, Rishabh Pant, after a long injury. The current IPL champions will also field a new captain in the form of Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Where to watch:
The highly anticipated second season of the cash-rich T20 league can be enjoyed on Star Sports networks and JioCinema.