Dharamshala Set to Host IPL 2026 Qualifier; International Fixtures Also Confirmed at HPCA Stadium
Despite the presence of several major cricket venues across India, the iconic HPCA Stadium continues to emerge as a preferred destination for marquee cricket events, attracting both legendary cricketers and enthusiastic fans from across the globe.
Arvind Sharma
May 24, 2026 08:46
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Dharamshala, May 24, 2026: Despite the presence of several major cricket venues across India, the iconic HPCA Stadium continues to emerge as a preferred destination for marquee cricket events, attracting both legendary cricketers and enthusiastic fans from across the globe.
The BCCI and IPL management have once again given priority to Dharamshala for hosting high-profile matches. HPCA Director Sanjay Sharma announced that all preparations have been completed for the first Qualifier match of IPL 2026, scheduled to be played on May 26 at the picturesque Dharamshala stadium, which has now carved out a distinct identity on the international cricket map.
Sharma said that, due to the efforts of IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal, Dharamshala has secured the hosting rights for this crucial knockout fixture. The highly anticipated clash will see Royal Challengers Bengaluru take on Gujarat Titans, with both teams already beginning their arrival in the hill city.
Meanwhile, the BCCI has revised the schedule for the upcoming One Day International between India national cricket team and Afghanistan national cricket team to be held in Dharamshala. Originally scheduled for June 14, the ODI will now be played on June 13.
Clarifying the reason for the date change, Sanjay Sharma said the adjustment was likely made to avoid a scheduling clash with the high-voltage India-Pakistan encounter in the Women’s T20 World Cup, expected to be played on June 14.
In another major development, Dharamshala has also been selected to host matches between the Australia A women's cricket team and the India A women's cricket team later this year. The ODI matches are scheduled for September 20, 23, and 25, while a solitary Test match between the two sides will be played from September 29 to October 2 at the HPCA Stadium.
