IPL 2025 suspended: Rising India-Pakistan tensions force BCCIâs hand
Context:
The 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) has been suspended for at least a week due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, causing significant security concerns. An incident during a match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala, where stadium lights failed, prompted the evacuation of players as local airports were closed. BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla confirmed arrangements for a special train to safely transport teams and officials to Delhi. The suspension decision was made after consultations with key stakeholders, including franchises and government officials, reflecting solidarity with the Indian government and armed forces. IPL chairman Arun Dhumal stated that the situation is being monitored closely, with decisions hinging on developments in the geopolitical landscape and governmental guidance.
Dive Deeper:
The 2025 IPL has been halted for at least a week due to rising India-Pakistan tensions, creating a precarious security environment that necessitated this decision.
During a match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals, the game was abruptly ended when stadium lights failed, highlighting the immediate security concerns at Dharamshala's HPCA Stadium.
BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla announced the evacuation of players, coaching staff, and officials via a special train from Dharamshala to Delhi, as local airports were inactive due to security threats.
The IPL Governing Council, after consulting with franchises, broadcasters, sponsors, and governmental bodies, decided on the suspension to prioritize the safety and interests of all stakeholders involved.
This suspension is initially set for a week, but the duration may change depending on the evolving geopolitical tensions and further instructions from the government.
IPL chairman Arun Dhumal emphasized the board's commitment to closely monitoring the situation, with all decisions being made considering logistical feasibility and the welfare of the stakeholders.
The suspension is part of a broader expression of support for the Indian government and armed forces, as outlined in a media advisory from the BCCI.
Indian Premier League 2025 has been called off amid rising security concerns in the country.
On Thursday, May 8, the IPL match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals had to be called off midway at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala.
PBKS batted first after winning the toss and had scored 122 runs in 10.1 overs when the stadium lights suddenly went off and the players were guided out of the venue.
BCCI vice president Rajeev Shukla confirmed that the board would arrange for a special train to evacuate players, coaching staffs and match officials from Dharamshala as the airport in the hill city remains closed due to security reasons.
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As of now, Both teams had been taken out of Dharamsala carefully. Since the local airport and nearby ones in Kangra and Chandigarh were shut for safety reasons, the teams were sent to Pathankot by road. From there, a special train will take them to Delhi.
Indian Premier League 2025 suspended: Why has IPL been postponed?
The BCCI has suspended the 2025 IPL for at least a week. The decision comes amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan -- which have caused uncertainty and concern within the cricketing ecosystem.BREAKING#IPL2025 suspended for one week in the wake of India-Pakistan conflict. Media advisory from the BCCI expresses âsolidarity with the Government of India, the Armed Forces and the people of our countryâ.#IndiaPakistanWar
Details đhttps://t.co/vPRT0lyYfVâ RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) May 9, 2025 According to the BCCI, the call was taken after consultations with franchises, broadcasters, sponsors and government officials.
"The decision was taken by the IPL Governing Council after due consultation with all key stakeholders... while the BCCI reposes full faith in the strength and preparedness of our armed forces, the Board considered it prudent to act in the collective interest of all stakeholders," the board said in an official release.
As of now, the suspension is for seven days but that could change depending on how the geopolitical situation develops. IPL chairman Arun Dhumal said the board is monitoring the situation and awaiting government direction.
"We are reviewing the situation... Any decision will be taken keeping all logistical considerations and the best interests of stakeholders in mind," Dhumal said.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.