The New PCA Stadium has been awarded key matches of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 playoffs. The Board of Control for Cricket in India on Tuesday officially announced the playoff schedule, under which the state-of-the-art stadium in New Chandigarh will host the Eliminator and Qualifier 2 matches.
PCA President Amarjeet Mehta said that the venue successfully hosted playoff matches last year as well, and the association is fully prepared once again. “Last year too, we were entrusted with hosting the playoff matches, and the event was a complete success. Once again, we are ready to host these games. BCCI has shown faith in Punjab yet again. We will give our best in both matches to ensure that the fans enjoy a memorable experience,” he said.
He further added, “We are grateful to the ICC Chairman and BCCI officials for awarding these matches to Punjab and giving cricket fans in North India a moment of pride. It is also a matter of personal honour for me. I consider this a victory for the fans who have always regarded Punjab as an excellent host.”
The IPL 2026 playoffs will begin with Qualifier 1 at the HPCA Stadium on May 26. The action will then shift to New Chandigarh, where the Eliminator between the third and fourth-placed teams will be played on May 27.
Qualifier 2 will also be held in New Chandigarh on May 29, featuring the loser of Qualifier 1 and the winner of the Eliminator. The winner of this match will secure a place in the final.
The tournament final will be played on May 31 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, regarded as the world’s largest cricket stadium. Bengaluru was originally scheduled to host the final, but the venue was shifted because of certain logistical considerations involving the local association and authorities.
Amarjeet Mehta also said that hosting another major cricket event for the second consecutive year has generated great excitement among cricket fans in Punjab. A large turnout of spectators from across the country is expected at the stadium, which will also boost sports tourism and create earning opportunities for local vendors.
