Kamal Ghorui
With the countdown to Indian Premier League 2026 underway, defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have issued a detailed ticketing advisory for fans ahead of the first phase of the season. While actual ticket sales are yet to go live, the franchise has outlined a step-by-step process and key guidelines to help supporters prepare for booking seats for their home matches.RCB will kick off their campaign on March 28 against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, followed by a high-profile clash against Chennai Super Kings on April 5. With only a partial schedule announced so far due to upcoming state elections, these two fixtures are currently the only confirmed home games in the initial phase.
RCB releases ticket pre-booking advisoryIn a bid to streamline the process, RCB shared important instructions through their official platforms, urging fans to rely only on authorised channels for purchasing tickets. The franchise also warned supporters against fraudulent sources and scams, stressing that tickets should be bought exclusively through official platforms once sales begin.Among the key highlights of the announcement are several fan-friendly matchday benefits. Ticket holders will be eligible for free metro rides on match days, easing travel concerns in Bengaluru. Additionally, fans will have the option to pre-book limited parking slots while purchasing tickets, along with access to shuttle services for pick-up and drop near the stadium.The advisory also emphasised the importance of checking entry gates mentioned on tickets, with spectator access restricted to Cubbon Road and Link Road for smooth crowd management.When and where to buy RCB ticketsAlthough RCB have released the pre-booking guide, the exact dates for ticket sales are yet to be confirmed. Fans are advised to stay tuned to official updates from both the franchise and the Board of Control for Cricket in India.Once available, tickets can be purchased through multiple authorised platforms, including the team’s official website, BookMyShow, and Zomato’s District app. These platforms will offer both online and offline booking options for fans.How to book RCB tickets online and offlineFor online bookings, fans can visit BookMyShow, the District app, or RCB’s official website, select the desired match, choose seating categories, and complete payment using digital options such as UPI, cards, or net banking. Tickets will then be delivered via email or SMS.Offline purchases will be available at authorised stadium counters and retail outlets, where fans can select seats, make payments via cash or card, and collect tickets instantly. Carrying a valid photo ID will be mandatory for such transactions.While RCB are yet to announce their ticket pricing, trends from other franchises suggest a wide range depending on seating and amenities. Prices across venues typically vary from affordable general stands to premium hospitality boxes.Defending champions gear up for new seasonLed by Rajat Patidar, RCB enter IPL 2026 as defending champions after clinching their maiden title last season. The team has retained a strong core while adding reinforcements such as Venkatesh Iyer and Jacob Duffy during the mini-auction.With five home matches scheduled in Bengaluru and additional games in Raipur later in the season, anticipation among fans is already building. As ticket sales are expected to open soon, RCB’s latest announcement serves as a crucial guide for supporters eager to catch the action live from the stands.
