The countdown to the IPL 2026 playoffs is heating up, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to reveal the host venues within the next 48 hours. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the timeline on Saturday, stating, "We are working on what could be the appropriate venue for the IPL playoffs and the final. So, we will take another two days' time."

The announcement came on the heels of the team selection for the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup, adding to an already busy day at BCCI headquarters in Mumbai. While fans are eager to know if last year's designated venues—Mullanpur and Bengaluru—will again host the knockout matches, Saikia remained tight-lipped. "You can keep guessing, but I am not going to give you a reply. We will take a call in two days' time," he said with a smile.

For context, Mullanpur played host to Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator last season, while the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad stepped in for Qualifier 2 and the final. This was a shift from the original plan, which had Eden Gardens in Kolkata slated for the championship match—a change necessitated by the Indo-Pak war-related disruptions that temporarily paused the season. The BCCI has already locked in May 31 as the date for the 2026 final, but the exact playoff schedule remains under wraps.

As cricket fans gear up for another thrilling season, the venue decisions will undoubtedly shape the playoff atmosphere. Whether it's the high-altitude excitement of Bengaluru or the emerging cricket hub of Mullanpur, one thing is certain: the race to the final promises to be as intense as ever. Stay tuned for the official announcement, and in the meantime, make sure your gear is ready for the big games ahead!