The Indian Premier League is played in the Twenty20 (T20) format. Each team normally faces a maximum of 20 overs in a completed innings. Ten franchises took part in IPL 2026, with the league stage followed by playoffs.
Basic IPL Match Format
- Format: Twenty20 cricket.
- Innings: One innings per team, normally up to 20 overs.
- Result: A tied match may go to a Super Over under the playing conditions. Rain-affected games follow the applicable regulations.
- Fielding restrictions: Powerplay and other fielding restrictions are defined in the season's official playing conditions.
Overseas Player Limit
Under the published IPL player regulations, a team may not name more than four overseas players in its starting eleven, and the on-field overseas-player limit is also four. This restriction matters when teams select a squad and use an Impact Player.
League Stage and Playoffs
The top four teams from the league stage advance. The top two play Qualifier 1; the third and fourth teams play the Eliminator. The Eliminator winner meets the Qualifier 1 loser in Qualifier 2, and the two qualifier winners reach the final. Read the IPL points and playoff guide.
Rules Can Change
Squad rules, auction provisions, substitutes and playing conditions can change by season. Check the official regulations for the current edition before relying on a specific rule. Related: Impact Player rule and auction rules.
Sources and Further Reading
Explore More IPL Guides
Visit the IPL guide hub, IPL winners list, or IPL teams list.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many overs does each IPL team get?
A team normally has a maximum of 20 overs in a completed T20 innings, subject to match conditions.
How many overseas players can start for an IPL team?
The published IPL player regulations limit a starting eleven to four overseas players.
How many teams qualify for the IPL playoffs?
Four teams qualify from the league stage.