The opening match of the Indian Premier League is always one of the most exciting moments of the tournament. Every season begins with a high-profile clash that officially starts the cricket festival for millions of fans around the world.
Over the years, several franchises have featured multiple times in the IPL season opener. Teams like Chennai Super Kings, Mumbai Indians, and Kolkata Knight Riders have regularly played the first match of the tournament.
These teams have often been part of opening fixtures due to their popularity and strong performances in previous seasons.
Meanwhile, defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru are set to appear in the opening match of IPL 2026. The team will face Sunrisers Hyderabad in the tournament opener on March 28 at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
However, despite the long history of the league, a few franchises are still waiting for their opportunity to play in an IPL season opener.
Punjab Kings
Punjab Kings is perhaps the most surprising team on this list. The franchise has been part of the IPL since the inaugural season in 2008 and has featured several international stars over the years.
Despite reaching the IPL final in 2014 and competing consistently in the tournament, the Punjab Kings have never been selected to play the opening match of the league. Fans have often expected the franchise to feature in the season opener, but the opportunity has yet to arrive.
Rajasthan Royals
Another notable franchise that has never played an IPL opener is the Rajasthan Royals. Interestingly, the Rajasthan Royals won the very first IPL title in 2008 under the leadership of the legendary Shane Warne.
Even after achieving such historic success, the team has never appeared in the opening match of the tournament. Reports suggest the franchise was expected to feature in the IPL 2009 opener, but scheduling changes due to national elections prevented that possibility.
Lucknow Super Giants
Lucknow Super Giants are one of the newest teams in the league and have quickly established themselves as a competitive side. Since joining the IPL during the expansion to 10 teams, Lucknow has reached the playoffs multiple times.
However, the franchise has not yet had the chance to play the season opener and will be hoping to feature in the first match of the tournament in the coming years.
As the excitement around IPL continues to grow every season, the opening match remains a special moment for both players and fans. For teams like Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, and Lucknow Super Giants, the wait to finally appear in an IPL season opener continues.
