IPL 2025: The Committee for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that IPL 2025 has been suspended immediately, albeit for a week, in the wake of border tensions in India-Pakistan. The board added that after assessing the situation, the new schedule and venue for the tournament will be announced in time.
“After a comprehensive assessment of the situation in discussion with relevant authorities and stakeholders, further updates regarding the new tournament schedule and venue will be announced in time.”
The decision was made by the BCCI on Friday after tensions that escalated across the border on Thursday night, leading to power outages in Jammu, Udhanpur and Pathankot as Pakistan airstrikes and drones took over the air. It led to a match between the Punjab Kings and the Delhi Capitals, which was cancelled at HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala after completing just 10.1 overs in the first innings.
With airports in Dharamshala and other north Indian cities closed, players and support staff from both PBK and DC, along with match officials, commentators, broadcasters and other key IPL-related personnel, took them to Jalanhar on Friday morning and took them to a bus to evacuate Dharamshala from Dharamshala.
BCCI further said the decision was made by the IPL Management Council, which includes Saikia and IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal.
“While the BCCI advocates a full faith in the strength and preparation of our military, the Board considered it wise to act in the collective interests of all stakeholders. At this critical time, the BCCI stands firmly with the nation.
“The Board pays tribute to our military’s courage, courage and selfless service. They continue to protect and inspire the nation as heroic efforts under Operation Sindore have led to a decisive response to recent terrorist and unjust attacks by Pakistani forces.”
“Cricket remains the passion of the people, but nothing is greater than the country and its sovereignty, integrity, security. The BCCI is firmly committed to protecting India and supporting all efforts to unite decisions in the best interests of the nation.”
With IPL 2025 suspended for a week and BCCI stopped, it is still unknown whether there will be an alternate window to host the remaining tournaments anytime soon, and what will happen with the venues for the remaining games. Currently, IPL 2025 has completed 58 games, with 12 games left to play in the league stage, followed by the playoffs.
All 10 franchises have been informed by the BCCI about the suspension of the week’s tournament, and will begin planning to ensure a safe departure for all players, support staff and crews when MEA advisories arrive on Friday evening.
“BCCI would like to thank key stakeholders Jiostar, the league’s official broadcaster Jiostar for its unwavering support. The board is also grateful to title sponsor TATA and all associate partners and stakeholders for bringing clear support for this decision and gaining national interest beyond all other considerations,” concluded Saikia.
