IPL 2025 Rescheduled: New Dates and Venue Concerns Amid Weather Warnings
IPL 2025 Set to Resume on May 17
After a week-long postponement, the IPL 2025 is scheduled to kick off again on May 17. The tournament's final was originally set for May 25 at Kolkata's Eden Gardens, with Qualifier 2 planned for May 23. However, the BCCI has released a revised schedule that does not specify the venues for any playoff matches. Additionally, there are reports of potential rain in Kolkata on June 3, which may lead to a change in the final's location.
CAB's Efforts to Retain Hosting Rights
The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) is making significant efforts to ensure that they do not lose the hosting rights for these crucial matches. In this context, CAB has submitted an important report to the BCCI.
Tensions Rise Following Terror Attack
In the wake of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India has taken retaliatory action against Pakistan, damaging nine terrorist bases. This has escalated tensions between the two nations. The last match before the IPL was postponed took place on May 7 in Kolkata, featuring KKR against CSK. Following this, the match between Punjab and Delhi on May 8 was halted and will be rescheduled.
Updated Playoff Schedule Announced
The BCCI has now announced the new schedule for the IPL playoffs, which includes specific dates for the matches. The first playoff match is set for May 29, followed by the Eliminator on May 30, the second Qualifier on June 1, and the final on June 3. While six stadiums have been selected for the league stage, the venues for the playoff matches remain undecided.
Weather Concerns Affecting Venue Decisions
The BCCI has indicated that decisions regarding the playoff venues will be made soon. There are concerns that the final and Qualifier 2 may be moved from Eden Gardens due to the forecast of rain around June 3. CAB has submitted a report to the BCCI, arguing that predicting the weather this far in advance is premature. They have contacted the Kolkata Meteorological Center for a weather pattern report for June 3 and have conveyed that making predictions for that date is hasty, suggesting that forecasts should be made closer to May 25.