IPL 2025 Closing Ceremony to Feature Grand Tribute to Indian Armed Forces

Ahmedabad, May 27 – The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to conclude with a patriotic flourish as reports confirm that the closing ceremony on June 3 at the Narendra Modi Stadium will include a special tribute to the Indian Armed Forces, commemorating their valor during Operation Sindoor.

According to a report by Sportstar, the tribute will honor the bravery and dedication of India’s military personnel, especially in light of their heroic actions in the aftermath of the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives. In response, on May 7, Indian forces launched Operation Sindoor, executing precise strikes on nine terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. The operation was marked by its effectiveness and strategic restraint, aiming to neutralize terror networks without triggering broader conflict.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has throughout the season acknowledged the armed forces through various initiatives. From the playing of the national anthem before matches to digital displays of messages like “Proud of the Indian Armed Forces”, the IPL has embraced a message of national unity and respect.

The closing ceremony’s homage is expected to be a moving and unifying moment, blending the excitement of cricket with patriotic pride. It will symbolize a bridge between the sports-loving public and the military personnel who safeguard the nation.

While the league prepares for a ceremonious end, the on-field battle for the IPL 2025 crown continues to intensify. On May 26, the Mumbai Indians (MI) will take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, a key fixture in the playoff race.

MI, who had their six-match winning streak broken by the Gujarat Titans, bounced back with a commanding 59-run win over Delhi Capitals, reaffirming their championship pedigree. With five IPL titles, MI are known to peak during crunch stages and will look to carry this momentum into the knockouts.

Punjab Kings, on the other hand, come into the match with questions over their bowling attack. Despite their strong batting lineup, led by Shreyas Iyer, PBKS faltered against Delhi, who chased down a daunting target of 207 with ease. The team is also grappling with injuries—Yuzvendra Chahal is nursing a niggle, though assistant coach Sunil Joshi expressed hope that he will recover in time for the playoffs. Adding to their concerns, Marco Jansen is unavailable, having returned home for WTC final preparations.

This clash will mark PBKS’ first meeting with MI in IPL 2025, and both teams are expected to go all guns blazing as the race for the top two playoff spots reaches its climax.