IPL 2025 Suspended Indefinitely Amid Rising India-Pakistan Tensions

New Delhi – May 9: In a significant development, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has suspended the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season indefinitely due to escalating tensions with Pakistan. The decision follows security concerns after Thursday’s match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala was abruptly halted and the stadium evacuated mid-game.

A BCCI official told PTI, “It does not look nice that cricket goes on while the country is at war,” confirming that the league, initially scheduled to conclude on May 25 in Kolkata, has been put on hold for the foreseeable future.

The situation intensified following reports of air raid sirens in Jammu and Pathankot, and drone activity near Jammu Airport. These developments prompted emergency blackouts in parts of Punjab, including Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Chandigarh, and led to a floodlight failure at the Dharamsala stadium.

IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal was seen directing fans to evacuate the stadium, while a visibly shaken cheerleader shared her ordeal in a video now circulating on social media. “It was very scary. Everyone was screaming. I think I'm still in shock,” she said.

BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla said, “We are monitoring the situation, seeking the government’s advice, and will take the final decision accordingly. At the moment, our priority is the safety of all players, fans, and stakeholders.”

Although Friday’s match between Lucknow Super Giants and Royal Challengers Bengaluru was initially declared to proceed as scheduled, the growing instability led to the complete suspension of the tournament. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Super League has also been relocated to the UAE amid similar regional instability.

The suspension of IPL 2025 is a rare but necessary step as national security concerns take precedence. The BCCI has assured that all stakeholders will be kept informed regarding any future developments.