IPL 2025 came to an abrupt halt on Friday, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a one-week suspension of the tournament due to escalating cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan.
The decision, prompted by security concerns and national priorities, has cast uncertainty over the future of cricket’s richest league, with 12 league-stage matches and the playoffs still pending.
The suspension follows a tumultuous 24 hours, highlighted by the abandonment of Thursday’s match between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC) in Dharamsala.
Security alerts forced the mid-innings cancellation, with players and staff enduring an overnight bus journey to Jalandhar and a special train to Delhi after the local airport was shut down.
BCCI Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia, in a statement, outlined the rationale behind the suspension: “The Board of Control for Cricket in India has decided to suspend the remainder of the ongoing TATA IPL 2025 with immediate effect for one week. 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 decision was finalised after a high-level video conference involving senior BCCI officials, including Saikia and IPL chairman Arun Dhumal. According to reports, the call resulted in a unanimous agreement that continuing the tournament amidst the current geopolitical climate would be inappropriate.
Franchises were informed promptly, leading to a chaotic disbandment as players and support staff scrambled to leave host cities or return to their home bases.
The BCCI’s statement also expressed solidarity with the nation, emphasising the priority of India’s sovereignty and security. “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 suspension has thrown the IPL’s schedule into disarray. With India’s five-Test tour of England starting June 20, the window to complete the remaining matches is narrow. If the situation does not stabilise, the earliest possible resumption could be in September, though this is complicated by the Asia Cup schedule.
The BCCI has promised further updates on the revised schedule and venues after a comprehensive security assessment with government agencies and stakeholders. Officials have indicated that the suspension could extend beyond a week if necessary to ensure the safety of players, staff, and the public.
Broadcaster JioStar, along with title sponsor TATA and other partners, has rallied behind the BCCI’s decision. JioStar issued a statement affirming its support: “We stand with the country, government, and armed forces during this critical time, extending solidarity to affected civilians. JioStar will collaborate closely with the BCCI and all stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition and safe return of all personnel involved in the tournament broadcast.” The BCCI echoed this sentiment, thanking JioStar and sponsors for prioritising national interest over commercial considerations.
