5 Best Apps to Watch Indian Premier League – IPL 2026 Live Online

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 is scheduled to start from March 22 to May 25, 2026. For cricket fans who prefer watching the Indian Premier League online, you can download any of these apps to watch all T20 matches of IPL 2026 on your smartphone.

This 18th season promises 74 thrilling matches across 13 venues, culminating in the grand finale on May 25 at the same iconic stadium. The tournament sticks to its fan-friendly schedule: evening matches at 7:30 PM IST and double-headers on weekends at 3:30 PM and 7:30 PM IST.

You won’t miss a moment, whether you’re streaming on JioHotstar or catching the vibe at a watch party. Fans want convenience, quality, and sometimes free options to catch IPL action. Whether you’re at school, work, or stuck in traffic, apps let you watch Indian Premier League matches live anywhere.

Top 5 Best Apps to Watch IPL 2026 Live Online On Mobile [Free/Paid]

Streaming apps provide convenience, flexibility, and often free or affordable access. From HD quality to multilingual commentary, these apps cater to diverse needs, ensuring you stay connected to every six, wicket, and victory.

App	Cost	Availability	Key Feature	Best For
JioCinema	Free (Jio users)	India	4K streaming, free access	Indian fans
JioHotstar	₹999-₹1,499/year	India + select regions	Premium quality, analysis	Quality seekers
Willow TV	$9.99/month	USA, Canada	Cricket-only focus	US-based fans
ESPN+	$10.99/month	USA	Multi-sport access	Sports enthusiasts
Touchcric	Free	Global	No-cost streaming	Budget viewers

Here are the best apps to stream IPL 2026, based on quality, accessibility, and user experience. Each offers unique features to enhance your cricket-watching journey.

1. JioCinema

JioCinema is the go-to app for Indian fans seeking free IPL 2026 streaming. Owned by Reliance Jio, it secured IPL digital rights and offers unmatched accessibility.

• Key Features: Free live streaming, 4K resolution, 12 language options (English, Hindi, Tamil, etc.), multi-camera angles, and match highlights.
• Availability: India only; requires a Jio SIM or JioFiber connection.
• Cost: Free for Jio users; non-Jio users can access it with a Jio plan starting at ₹149/month.
• Why It Stands Out: Enjoy no subscription fees and access premium features like “Hype Mode” for real-time fan engagement.

2. JioHotstar

JioHotstar a join venture of JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar is the official livestreaming app to watch Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) online on mobile for free.

• Cost: Starts at ₹149/month (not free anymore—sorry!).
• Why It’s Great: HD and 4K streaming, multi-angle views, Hindi/English commentary, and live stats. I watched IPL 2024 on it—smooth as butter!
• How to Use: Download from Google Play or App Store, sign up with a Jio or Hotstar account, select a plan, and start streaming.
• Best For: Fans who want top-notch quality and don’t mind paying.

3. Willow TV

Willow TV is a cricket-focused streaming service perfect for IPL 2026 viewers in the United States and Canada.

• Key Features: Live IPL streaming, on-demand replays, and coverage of other cricket leagues (ICC events, BBL, etc.).
• Availability: USA and Canada; accessible via app or partnered cable providers.
• Cost: $9.99/month or $79.99/year; often bundled with Sling TV.
• Why It Stands Out: A dedicated cricket platform offering HD quality with no regional blackouts.

4. ESPN+

ESPN+ offers IPL 2026 streaming for fans in the US and beyond, blending cricket with a wide sports catalog.

• Key Features: Live IPL matches, highlights, and analysis; includes other sports like soccer and UFC.
• Availability: USA, with some content accessible via VPN elsewhere.
• Cost: $10.99/month or $109.99/year; 30-day free trial available.
• Why It Stands Out: Affordable pricing and a robust sports package for multi-sport enthusiasts.

5. Touchcric

Another free app for live cricket streaming. Cricket fans worldwide can watch all Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 matches live on Touchcric.

• Cost: Free (unofficial).
• Why It’s Great: Simple design, fast loading, fewer ads than others. It saved me during a power cut last IPL!
• How to Use: Download the APK from a trusted source, open, and select your match.
• Best For: Fans who hate clutter and want speed.

How to Choose the Right App for You

Picking the best app depends on your location, budget, and preferences:

• Location: JioCinema and Hotstar cater to India, while Willow TV and ESPN+ are tailored for the US; TouchCric operates globally.
• Budget: Free options like JioCinema and Flixfox save money; Hotstar and ESPN+ offer paid value.
• Features: Want 4K? Go for JioCinema. Need replays? Willow TV excels. Love extras? Hotstar’s your pick.

Bonus Apps for IPL 2026 Updates and Highlights

Can’t watch live? These apps keep you in the loop with scores, news, and highlights.

• Cricbuzz: Real-time scores, ball-by-ball commentary, and IPL news. Free and widely trusted.
• ESPNCricinfo: Detailed stats, live updates, and expert articles. Perfect for cricket nerds.
• IPL T20 Official App: Schedules, player interviews, and highlights straight from the source.

Frequently Asked Questions