Manas Dasgupta
NEW DELHI, May 9: The ongoing 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been suspended at least for a week for security reasons amidst the heightened tension due to India – Pakistan conflict.
The decision was taken by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday which said the new schedule and venues would be announced in due course of time after consultation with all stakeholders.
“The BCCI has decided to suspend the remainder of the ongoing IPL 2025 with immediate effect for one week,” an official statement released by the IPL Governing Council said on Friday afternoon.
“Further updates regarding the new schedule and venues of the tournament will be announced in due course after a comprehensive assessment of the situation in consultation with relevant authorities and stakeholders,” the statement added. It added that the safety of the players was paramount.
“The decision was taken by the IPL Governing Council after due consultation with all key stakeholders following the representations from most of the franchisees, who conveyed the concern and sentiments of their players, and also the views of the broadcaster, sponsors and fans. While the BCCI reposes full faith in the strength and preparedness of our armed forces, the Board considered it prudent to act in the collective interest of all stakeholders,” the BCCI said in a statement.
The suspension was expected from the time the match between Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings, that was taking place in Dharamsala on Thursday evening was abandoned in the middle of the game following blackout in the adjoining areas.
The cricket body added that it stands with the Indian Armed Forces and the Government of India. “At this critical juncture, the BCCI stands firmly with the nation. We express our solidarity with the Government of India, the Armed Forces and the people of our country. The Board salutes the bravery, courage, and selfless service of our armed forces, whose heroic efforts under “Operation Sindoor” continue to protect and inspire the nation, as they lead a resolute response to the recent terrorist attack and the unwarranted aggression by Pakistan’s armed forces.
“While cricket remains a national passion, there is nothing greater than the Nation and its sovereignty, integrity, and security of our country. The BCCI remains firmly committed to support all efforts that safeguard India and will always align its decisions in the best interest of the nation.”
While earlier reports suggested that the tournament had been suspended indefinitely, BCCI have put in a timeline of a week. “The BCCI has decided to suspend the remainder of the ongoing IPL with immediate effect for one week,” BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia stated in a press release, after information from the board suggested that the suspension was indefinite.
IPL 2025 was to end on Sunday, May 25, in Kolkata, according to the original schedule. BCCI will look to hold the remaining 16 games at an opportune time, and there is speculation that September can be an option if the scheduled Asia Cup is scrapped.
The BCCI thanked stakeholders like the official broadcaster, the title sponsor and all associate partners for putting national interest above all other considerations as well.
India launched missile attacks on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir, a fortnight after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed.
