IPL suspended for a week amid border tensions

New Delhi

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has been suspended for one week due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the decision on Friday. A revised schedule and new venues will be announced after discussions with authorities and stakeholders.

The move followed Thursday night’s airstrikes and drone attacks that caused blackouts in Jammu, Udhampur, and Pathankot. A match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamshala was abandoned midway. Airports in north India, including Dharamshala, were closed.

Players, match officials, broadcasters, and other IPL personnel were safely evacuated from Dharamshala to Jalandhar and then taken to New Delhi by a special train arranged by the BCCI.

The IPL Governing Council, including BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia and IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal, made the decision after consulting franchisees, broadcasters, and sponsors. Most teams had expressed concerns over safety.

The BCCI stated it supports the Government of India and praised the courage of the armed forces, particularly under “Operation Sindoor.” The Board said national security is more important than sport and expressed full solidarity with the nation.

So far, IPL 2025 has completed 58 matches. Only 12 league games and the playoffs remain. It’s unclear whether the remaining games will continue immediately after the one-week pause or be moved to a later window.

All ten franchises have been informed. Teams will wait for the Ministry of External Affairs’ advisory before planning the safe travel of their players and staff.

The BCCI thanked broadcaster JioStar, title sponsor TATA, and other partners for their support and understanding.