IPL 2025 Set to Resume Amidst Tensions: What’s Next for Teams?
IPL 2025 Resumption Plans Amidst Rising Tensions
New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has instructed all ten franchises of the IPL to gather by Tuesday, as the tournament prepares to resume its concluding phase.
The IPL 2025 faced a one-week suspension due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly following the suspension of the Punjab Kings versus Delhi Capitals match in Dharamshala, which was affected by air strikes and power outages in nearby regions like Jammu and Pathankot.
At the point of suspension, the tournament had already seen 58 matches completed, with 12 league matches and playoffs still pending. Following the announcement, players and most support staff from all franchises returned to their homes and countries.
"We have received instructions to gather our players and support staff by Tuesday. The exact location for this assembly is yet to be confirmed. However, we have been notified by the BCCI to start the process of bringing everyone together by then. We will also initiate arrangements for the return of our overseas players to India as soon as possible," stated a senior official from one franchise, who wished to remain anonymous.
Reports indicate that Ricky Ponting and Brad Haddin, the head coach and assistant coach of Punjab Kings, are still in India, unlike other coaching staff members such as Justin Langer (head coach of Lucknow Super Giants) and Mike Hussey (batting coach of Chennai Super Kings), who have already returned to Australia.
The BCCI aims to complete all remaining IPL matches before May 25, as the India 'A' team is scheduled to depart for a three-match tour of England. According to the original IPL schedule, the final is set for May 25 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
The IPL governing council will finalize the revised schedule's dates and venues after consulting with the government, especially following the recent ceasefire violations. After the IPL concludes, the Indian Test team is slated to head to England for a five-match Test series commencing June 20 at Headingley.