Why Has IPL 2025 Been Suspended for a Week?

New Delhi, May 9 (NationPress) The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced the suspension of IPL 2025 for a duration of one week due to the escalating tensions along the India-Pakistan border. The board stated that a revised schedule and venues for the tournament will be disclosed in due course after thoroughly evaluating the situation.

“Further announcements regarding the new schedule and venues will be made after a complete assessment in consultation with relevant authorities and stakeholders,” BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia mentioned in an official statement.

The decision was made on Friday after cross-border tensions heightened on Thursday night, causing blackouts in Jammu, Udhampur, and Pathankot. This led to the calling off of the match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala after just 10.1 overs of the first innings.

With the airport in Dharamshala and other northern cities shut down, players and support staff from both PBKS and DC, along with match officials, commentators, broadcast crew, and other essential IPL personnel were evacuated from Dharamshala by bus to Jalandhar on Friday morning, where a special train arranged by the tournament is now transporting them to New Delhi.

The BCCI noted that this decision was reached by the IPL Governing Council, which includes Saikia and IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal, after consulting with all critical stakeholders following feedback from most franchisees expressing their players' concerns, alongside views from the broadcaster, sponsors, and fans.

“While the BCCI has full confidence in the strength and readiness of our armed forces, the Board deemed it wise to act in the collective interest of all stakeholders. At this crucial moment, the BCCI stands united with the nation, expressing solidarity with the Government of India, the Armed Forces, and the citizens of our country,” Saikia emphasized.

“We honor the bravery, courage, and selfless service of our armed forces, whose heroic efforts under Operation Sindoor continue to protect and inspire the nation, responding resolutely to the recent terrorist attack and unwarranted aggression from Pakistan’s armed forces.”

“Although cricket is a national passion, our nation's sovereignty, integrity, and security take precedence. The BCCI is resolutely committed to supporting all efforts that safeguard India and will always align its decisions with the nation’s best interests,” Saikia elaborated.

As IPL 2025 is officially suspended for one week, it remains to be seen if an alternate window for the remaining tournament will be available and what venues will host the remaining games. Currently, IPL 2025 has completed 58 matches, with 12 games still left in the league stage before the playoffs.

All ten franchises have been notified of the tournament’s one-week suspension by the BCCI and will begin making arrangements for the safe departure of all players, support staff, and crew members once the MEA advisory is issued on Friday evening.

“The BCCI expresses gratitude to its key stakeholder – JioStar, the league’s official broadcaster, for their understanding and unwavering support. The Board is also thankful to Title sponsor TATA and all associate partners and stakeholders for prioritizing national interest over other considerations,” concluded Saikia.