BCCI Suspends IPL Amid Bomb Threats at Delhi Stadium
Bomb Threats Lead to IPL Suspension
The Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, home to the Delhi Capitals, was set to host a match against the Gujarat Titans on May 11. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a temporary suspension of the league. This decision follows bomb threats received by the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) via an anonymous email on March 9, which warned of a potential explosion at the stadium.
A senior official from the DDCA confirmed to a local media outlet that the email has been forwarded to the Delhi Police. The official stated,
"Yes, we received a threat email this morning and have already forwarded it to the Delhi Police. They already swung into action and did an inspection of the venue some time back."
This incident is not isolated; Indian stadiums have faced similar threats during the ongoing Operation Sindoor. On May 7, the Eden Gardens in Kolkata received a bomb threat just before a match between Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders. The following day, the Sawai Man Singh Stadium in Jaipur also reported a threat. All cricket boards involved have promptly notified their local police.
Read also: Proposal to Shift IPL 2025 to UK Amid Ongoing Tensions
Immediate Suspension of IPL
The IPL faced immediate suspension following the abrupt halt of the match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals. Speculation about a league suspension was confirmed the next day by the BCCI. In a show of solidarity, all IPL teams expressed their support for the Indian Armed Forces, prioritizing national security over entertainment. Media figures, including Jatin Sapru, publicly stated that the decision was made in the interest of the country, not out of obligation.
After the tournament's suspension, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia remarked,
"National interest trumps all other considerations."
The Board reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and unity of the nation. With 16 matches remaining, the BCCI indicated that a revised schedule would be announced following discussions with relevant authorities and stakeholders.