Countdown to the 2026 edition of the book Indian Premier League It’s almost over with the tournament starting on March 28. There will be an opening match Royal Challengers Bengaluru to take Sunrisers Hyderabad at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. As fans eagerly await the start of another high-octane season, the debate surrounding potential title contenders has already gained momentum.
As the excitement builds, the former India opener Akash Chopra shared his predictions for the top four teams likely to make the playoffs this year, offering insights based on roster strength, balance and overall depth.
Former player picks the top 4 teams of IPL 2026
Chopra identified Mumbai Indians and Capitals of Delhi As his strongest candidate for the 2026 season. According to him, both teams have well-rounded squads that can dominate the league stage if their key players stay fit and consistent.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra acknowledged the unpredictable nature of the tournament but stressed that these two sides looked formidable “on paper”. He added that Mumbai and Delhi could even finish as the top two teams and potentially compete in the final if conditions go in their favour. Chopra highlighted factors such as player preparation, form, pitch conditions and luck as crucial variables that could affect the standings, but maintained that these two teams were superior heading into the season.
“It’s a tough game. Nobody knows because there are a few variables like form, fitness, how the pitches are going to be, how much luck favors you and all that. However, Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals are two teams that look very good to me on paper. If all their players stay fit and available and the form stays decent, they’re really ideal and shouldn’t finish anyone.” They were going to go, but I think they should definitely fit in.” Chopra said.
He backed Chopra for the remaining two playoff spots Kings of the Punjab and defending champions RCB. While expressing confidence in the depth of Punjab’s squad, he admitted there were some concerns about the Bengaluru camp. In particular, he pointed to recent setbacks, including injuries to key players, that could affect RCB’s campaign. Despite these issues, Chopra believes the overall balance of the team and the strength of the bench should help them reach the top four.
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However, he also issued a note of caution, suggesting that one of his expected teams could miss out, leaving room for a surprise entrant. The IPL has historically been unpredictable, often with underdogs on the occasion.
“I think Punjab Kings are the third team that should qualify. Although there is no good news from the RCB camp, I am thinking of Royal Challengers Bengaluru as the fourth. The news of Nuwan Thuhara has just come. So things are not really shaping up well for RCB. But, seeing the other teams and the strength of this team, IRC should have a fourth team and depth. The four can miss and the fifth team can come in. It can be any team.” Chopra added.
The league stage will continue until May 24
Meanwhile, Board of Control for Cricket in India It has officially announced the complete schedule of the league stage of IPL 2026. The group stage will take place from March 28 to May 24, featuring a packed schedule of matches across several venues.
The final league match is scheduled between Kolkata Knight Riders and DC set the stage for what promises to be an exciting round-robin finish.
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