As the Indian Premier League gears up for another thrilling season, its pull on millions of viewers worldwide is undeniable. I’ve seen fans searching frantically every year for reliable ways to watch matches live across devices. With IPL 2026 approaching, let me be clear from experience: sticking with official streaming platforms remains the safest option for uninterrupted coverage.
In India, your primary hub for IPL live streaming is JioHotstar, allowing fans to watch matches seamlessly on smartphones, smart TVs, and laptops through its active subscription plans. For traditional TV viewers, the live action continues on the Star Sports Network.
For international audiences, the landscape shifts based on your location. IPL matches are streamed on services like YuppTV, Willow TV, and Kayo Sports, strictly based on regional availability. This complete guide to the best IPL streaming platforms should point you in the right direction, whether you’re in India or abroad.
Your Complete Guide: Where to Watch IPL 2026 Live
Here’s a quick table to watching every exciting moment of the IPL 2026 season.
| Region | TV Channel | Live Streaming App | Status | Estimated Cost (2026) |
| India | Star Sports Network | JioHotstar | Paid | ₹149 (3 mo. Mobile) / ₹1,499 (Annual Premium) |
| USA & Canada | Willow TV | Willow / Sling TV | Paid | $9.99 / month or $79.99 / year |
| UK & Ireland | Sky Sports Cricket | Sky Go / NOW TV | Paid | £14.99 (Day Pass) / £34.99 (Monthly) |
| Australia | Fox Cricket | Kayo Sports / Foxtel | Paid | $29.99 (Standard) / $45.99 (Premium) |
| South Africa | SuperSport | SuperSport App | Paid | Included with DStv Premium (~R799/mo) |
| Middle East | beIN / CricLife | beIN Connect | Paid | ~$15 – $20 USD / month |
| New Zealand | Sky Sport NZ | Sky Sport Now | Paid | $44.99 NZD / month |
| Pakistan | No Official TV | Yupp TV | Paid | ~$5 – $10 USD / month |
Where to Watch IPL Live on TV in India
If you plan to watch IPL 2026 live on TVs in India, the Star Sports Network remains your traditional go-to channel. Many don’t realize that JioStar owns the network rights for several flagship tournaments, including ICC Events and this very Indian Premier League, making it the definitive broadcaster for these spectacles alongside others like One Championship.
Here is the complete lineup of channels broadcasting the IPL 2026 season in India.:
| Platform Type | Channel / App Name | Language | Subscription / Cost |
| Digital Streaming | JioHotstar (App & Web) | English, Hindi, +8 Regional | Paid (Plans from ₹149/3-mo) |
| TV (English) | Star Sports 1 (SD & HD) | English | Paid (DTH/Cable charges) |
| TV (Hindi) | Star Sports 1 Hindi (SD & HD) | Hindi | Paid (DTH/Cable charges) |
| TV (Regional) | Star Sports 1 Tamil, Telugu, Kannada | Regional | Paid (DTH/Cable charges) |
| TV (Secondary) | Star Sports 2 (SD & HD) | English/Hindi | Paid (DTH/Cable charges) |
| Free-to-Air (TV) | Star Utsav Movies | Hindi | Free (Selected matches only) |
Popular TV Services Featuring the Star Sports Network
If you’re looking for a TV service to experience the thrill of the IPL, all the major ones listed offer the Star Sports channel, typically as part of larger channel packs rather than as individual channels you can subscribe to separately.
| TV Service Provider | Star Sports 1 (English) | Star Sports 1 (Hindi) | Star Sports 1 (HD) | Estimated Monthly Cost |
| Tata Play | 455 | 460 | 454 (Eng) / 459 (Hin) | ₹19 – ₹22 (per channel) |
| Airtel Digital TV | 277 | 281 | 278 (Eng) / 282 (Hin) | ₹20 – ₹25 (per channel) |
| Dish TV | 603 | 607 | 602 (Eng) / 606 (Hin) | ₹15 – ₹20 (per channel) |
| Videocon d2h | 401 | 407 | 923 (Eng) / 925 (Hin) | ₹15 – ₹22 (per channel) |
| Sun Direct | 500 | 517 | 982 (Eng) / 991 (Hin) | ₹18 – ₹20 (per channel) |
| JioTV+ (Set-top Box) | 455 | 459 | Included in HD Pack | Part of Fiber Plan |
Please note that plan details, pricing, and channel numbers are subject to change by the TV service providers.
Streaming IPL Live: The Ultimate OTT Guide
Whether you want to catch a LIVE IPL game while commuting, on office breaks, or in any other situations where a big screen isn’t around, OTT platforms are the true saviour for fans.
Here’s a closer look at the top options available.
1. JioHotstar (Formerly JioCinema & Disney+ Hotstar)
Following the recent JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar merger, IPL 2026 will be streamed exclusively on the new JioHotstar platform in India. This giant brings a massive reach of over 750 million potential viewers, and from my tests, it reliably offers high-quality streaming with multiple language options for commentary, which is a huge win for regional fans.
Here are the complete details for the JioHotstar streaming service for the 2026 IPL season, including the direct access links and platform parameters.
JioHotstar (Merged Platform) Subscription Details
| Parameters | Mobile Plan | Super Plan | Premium Plan |
| Cost (3 Months) | ₹149 | ₹299 | ₹499 |
| Cost (Annual) | ₹499 | ₹899 | ₹1,499 |
| Device Limit | 1 Device (Mobile/Tablet) | 2 Devices (Any) | 4 Devices (Any) |
| Video Quality | HD (720p) | Full HD (1080p) | 4K Ultra HD (2160p) |
| Audio Quality | Stereo / Dolby | Dolby Atmos | Dolby Vision & Atmos |
| Supported Devices | Mobile & Tablets only | TV, Web, Mobile, Tablet | TV, Web, Mobile, Tablet |
| Ad Experience | Ad-supported | Ad-supported | Ad-free (Except Live Sports) |
| Live Sports | Included (with Ads) | Included (with Ads) | Included (with Ads) |
| Exclusive Content | HBO, Disney+, Warner Bros | HBO, Disney+, Warner Bros | HBO, Disney+, Warner Bros |
| Website Link | — | hotstar.com | hotstar.com |
| Android App | Play Store Link | Play Store Link | Play Store Link |
| iOS App | App Store Link | App Store Link | App Store Link |
Important Details for 2026
- Platform Merger: JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar have officially merged into JioHotstar. All IPL 2026 digital streaming is exclusive to this single app.
- The “Hybrid” Model: For IPL 2026, the service is not completely free. While “Free-to-View” snippets or specific matches (like the final) may be free, a full season requires a subscription or a linked Jio/Airtel recharge plan.
- Browser Restriction: The Mobile Plan (₹149) is restricted to the app only. If you want to watch the IPL on a laptop or Desktop browser, you must subscribe to the Super or Premium plan.
- Ad-Free Exceptions: Even on the Premium Plan, Live Sports (IPL matches) will contain advertisements during overs and match breaks, as these are part of the live broadcast feed.
To watch IPL 2026, users must have a subscription. The minimum plan starts at ₹149/month, and there is no free streaming this season.
2. Sony LIV
Sony LIV is a strong alternative platform for streaming IPL 2026 matches live in India, known for its high-quality HD streaming. Unlike JioHotstar, it does not offer free streaming for the IPL; a paid subscription is always required. However, it caters to diverse user needs with multiple subscription plans, making it a flexible, albeit premium, choice for dedicated fans.
While Sony LIV does not have the broadcasting rights for IPL 2026 (which are exclusive to JioHotstar), it remains a major destination for other cricket like the Asia Cup, England/Sri Lanka bilateral series, and the UEFA Champions League.
Here’s a detailed, parameter-based comparison of Sony LIV’s subscription plans for 2026.
Sony LIV Subscription Details (2026)
| Parameters | Mobile Plan | LIV Premium (Monthly) | LIV Premium (Annual) |
| Cost | ₹699 (Annual only) | ₹399 (1 Month) | ₹1,499 (Yearly) |
| Device Limit | 1 Device (Mobile/Tablet) | 1 Device (Any) | 2 Devices (Concurrent) |
| Video Quality | HD (720p) | 4K Ultra HD | 4K Ultra HD |
| Audio Quality | Stereo | Dolby Atmos | Dolby Atmos |
| Supported Devices | Mobile & Tablets only | TV, Web, Mobile, Tablet | TV, Web, Mobile, Tablet |
| Ad Experience | Ad-supported | Ad-free (Except Live) | Ad-free (Except Live) |
| Live Sports | Included (with Ads) | Included (with Ads) | Included (with Ads) |
| Website Link | sonyliv.com | sonyliv.com | sonyliv.com |
| Android App | Play Store Link | Play Store Link | Play Store Link |
| iOS App | App Store Link | App Store Link | App Store Link |
Key Differences from JioHotstar
- IPL Coverage: Note: You cannot watch IPL 2026 on Sony LIV. Sony LIV covers events like the Australian Open 2026, WWE, and UEFA Champions League.
- Mobile Pricing: Sony LIV’s Mobile plan is generally sold as an annual-only pack (₹699), whereas JioHotstar offers a shorter 3-month entry point (₹149).
- Ad-Free Content: Sony LIV is known for its high-quality “Originals” (like Scam 2003 or Maharani) which are completely ad-free on the Premium plans.
- Telecom Bundles: Sony LIV is frequently bundled with Vodafone Idea (Vi) recharges (e.g., the ₹408 or ₹998 plans) and Airtel Xstream Fiber plans.
8. Amazon Prime Video
For international fans, Amazon Prime Video is a major streaming platform that often includes sports content. Whether IPL 2026 matches will be available to stream depends entirely on regional broadcasting rights in locations like the USA, UK, and other international regions. A key point to remember: the IPL will not be available on Amazon Prime in India, so always check your local listings.
While Amazon Prime Video does not hold the rights to the IPL (which are exclusive to JioHotstar), it is a major player for international cricket, specifically holding the exclusive rights to stream all New Zealand Cricket (Home matches) in India through the 2025-26 season.
As of June 2025, Prime Video in India introduced a “limited ads” model, similar to other major streaming services.
Amazon Prime Subscription Details (2026)
| Parameters | Prime Lite | Standard Prime (Monthly) | Standard Prime (Annual) |
| Cost | ₹799 (Annual only) | ₹299 (1 Month) | ₹1,499 (Yearly) |
| Device Limit | 1 Device (Mobile/Tablet) | 3 Devices (Concurrent) | 3 Devices (Concurrent) |
| Video Quality | HD (720p) | 4K Ultra HD | 4K Ultra HD |
| Audio Quality | Stereo | Dolby Atmos | Dolby Atmos |
| Ad Experience | Ad-supported | Limited Ads* | Limited Ads* |
| Ad-Free Option | Not Available | +₹129/month | +₹699/year |
| Live Sports | Included (with Ads) | Included (with Ads) | Included (with Ads) |
| Shopping Benefits | Standard Delivery only | Free Fast Delivery | Free Fast Delivery |
| Other Benefits | None | Music, Gaming, Reading | Music, Gaming, Reading |
| Website Link | amazon.in/prime | amazon.in/prime | amazon.in/prime |
| Android App | Play Store Link | Play Store Link | Play Store Link |
| iOS App | App Store Link | App Store Link | App Store Link |
Note on Ads: Since June 17, 2025, even Standard Prime includes “limited advertisements.” You must pay the extra “Ad-Free” fee to remove them from movies/shows. Live sports always include ads.
Cricket Coverage on Amazon Prime (2026)
- New Zealand Cricket: Prime Video is the exclusive home for all men’s and women’s international matches (Tests, ODIs, T20Is) played in New Zealand.
- Other Leagues: Through its “Channels” feature, you can add subscriptions like FanCode to watch the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) or other domestic tournaments directly within the Prime Video app.
- Youth Cricket: In some regions (like Australia), Prime Video streams the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026.
Youth Discount (Youth Offer)
If you are between 18-24 years old, Amazon India offers a 50% Cashback on your Prime membership. You must verify your age using an ID (Aadhar/PAN) after subscribing to get the refund in your Amazon Pay wallet.
Where Can You Watch An IPL Live Match Free Of Cost?
If you’re looking to stream IPL cricket live online for free, your destination is clear: download the JioCinema or Disney+ Hotstar app, create an account or sign in, and you can start watching the games in full HD right away. I’ve used this free tier on my Smart TV, and the viewing experience through the Jio Cinema app is surprisingly solid for casual watching. For those who want an even smoother experience, their premium plans are quite affordable, ensuring high-quality entertainment not just during but also between the intense IPL games.
IPL Live Streaming Options For Those Outside India
If you’re outside India or prefer a subscription service, you might find IPL matches on platforms like:
To provide a clear and organized view of the IPL 2026 international broadcast landscape, I have broken down the networks and streaming options into individual tables by major region/country.
1. United States & Canada
Willow TV remains the primary home for cricket in North America, often bundled with major cable providers.
| Parameters | Willow TV Details |
| TV Channel | Willow TV / Willow Xtra |
| Official Website | willow.tv |
| Android App | Willow for Android |
| iOS App | Willow for iOS |
| Monthly Cost | $9.99 USD |
| Annual Cost | $79.99 USD |
| Viewing Tip | Also available via Sling TV or DesiPlay packages. |
2. United Kingdom & Ireland
Sky Sports holds the exclusive rights for both the IPL and the WPL (Women’s Premier League) through 2027.
| Parameters | Sky Sports / NOW Details |
| TV Channel | Sky Sports Cricket / Main Event |
| Streaming App | NOW TV / Sky Go |
| Android App | NOW for Android |
| iOS App | NOW for iOS |
| Day Membership | £14.99 |
| Monthly Cost | £34.99 |
| Viewing Tip | Use the NOW Sports Membership if you don’t want a long-term Sky contract. |
3. Australia
Matches usually air in the late night or early morning hours for Australian viewers.
| Parameters | Kayo Sports / Fox Details |
| TV Channel | Fox Cricket (Channel 501) |
| Streaming App | Kayo Sports / Foxtel Go |
| Android App | Kayo for Android |
| iOS App | Kayo for iOS |
| Basic Plan | $29.99 AUD/mo (High Definition) |
| Premium Plan | $45.99 AUD/mo (4K Ultra HD) |
| Viewing Tip | Existing Foxtel IQ subscribers get IPL included in their sports pack. |
4. Middle East & North Africa (MENA)
This includes the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt.
| Parameters | Starzplay / CricLife Details |
| TV Channel | CricLife 1 (via Etisalat/Evision) |
| Streaming App | Starzplay / Switch TV |
| Android App | Starzplay for Android |
| iOS App | Starzplay for iOS |
| Estimated Cost | ~$15.00 USD / month |
| Viewing Tip | Look for the “Starzplay Sports” add-on pack specifically for cricket. |
5. South Africa & Sub-Saharan Africa
SuperSport provides comprehensive coverage across the African continent.
| Parameters | SuperSport / DStv Details |
| TV Channel | SuperSport Cricket / Grandstand |
| Streaming App | DStv Stream |
| Android App | DStv for Android |
| iOS App | DStv for iOS |
| Subscription | Included with DStv Premium |
| Viewing Tip | DStv Stream allows you to watch on your mobile even if you are away from your TV. |
6. Rest of the World (Global Digital)
For countries like Pakistan, parts of Europe, and South East Asia without a local broadcaster.
| Parameters | Yupp TV Details |
| Streaming App | Yupp TV |
| Android App | Yupp TV for Android |
| iOS App | Yupp TV for iOS |
| Estimated Cost | $5 – $10 USD (Varies by country) |
| Viewing Tip | Check the Yupp TV “Live” section 24 hours before the match for the tournament pass. |
Suggested Reads:
Conclusion: How to Watch IPL Live in 2026
For IPL 2026, the best advice I can give fans is to stick with official IPL streaming and broadcast platforms. These authorized services guarantee a smooth, high-quality viewing experience with stable streams in HD or even 4K, multi-device access, and crisp official commentary so you never miss a key moment. Choosing these legal platforms isn’t just about better performance and features; it directly supports the league and its continued growth worldwide. Trust me, it’s the most reliable way to enjoy the tournament.
FAQs
Which app to watch live IPL?
JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar are the official apps to watch live IPL in India.
Is Willow TV free?
No, Willow TV requires a paid subscription.
Is Willow TV free on Prime?
No, Willow TV is not free on Prime and requires a separate subscription.
Is SonyLIV free for Jio users?
No, SonyLIV is not free for Jio users and requires a separate subscription.
