IPL 2025 Restart Uncertain Amid Rising Tensions
Current Status of IPL 2025
Rajeev Shukla, the Vice President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has indicated that a final decision regarding the resumption of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has not yet been reached.
Shukla emphasized that BCCI officials are diligently addressing the situation and expressed confidence that the tournament will resume shortly.
"No decision has been finalized. The BCCI is actively managing the circumstances. The tournament was halted for a week, and a ceasefire was declared yesterday. We will restart the tournament soon," Shukla informed reporters on Sunday.
Suspension of IPL Matches
On Friday, the BCCI announced the immediate suspension of the ongoing IPL 2025 for one week due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.
Match Abandonment Due to Tensions
The match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium in Dharamshala was interrupted and ultimately called off during the first innings on Thursday. Spectators were notified of the cancellation and instructed to leave the venue, while both teams were escorted back to their accommodations.
In an official statement, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia remarked, "The BCCI has decided to suspend the ongoing IPL 2025 with immediate effect for one week. Updates regarding the new schedule and venues will be provided after a thorough evaluation of the situation in collaboration with relevant authorities and stakeholders."
Stakeholder Consultation
"The IPL Governing Council made this decision after consulting with key stakeholders, including franchise representatives who expressed concerns about their players' safety, as well as feedback from broadcasters, sponsors, and fans. While the BCCI has full confidence in our armed forces, it was deemed wise to act in the collective interest of all involved," he added.
Postponement of Neeraj Chopra Classic
Additionally, the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, scheduled for May 24 at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru, has been postponed until further notice due to the escalating tensions between the two nations.