The 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) was suspended for a week on Friday, May 9. The future of the 10-team tournament is uncertain amid the growing tension between India and Pakistan.
Things started with the mid-match abandonment of the high-stakes clash between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala on Thursday. The Dharamsala airport and the ones nearby were already closed before the commencement of the match. Mumbai Indians were set to face Punjab Kings in Dharamsala on Sunday, May 11, but that was already shifted to Ahmedabad.
After 10.1 overs were bowled in the first innings, Punjab scored 122/1 before one of the light towers was switched off. This happened due to a power outage caused by a significant technical failure in the area. The fans were asked to evacuate as soon as possible.
The players and support staff of Punjab and Delhi travelled from Dharamsala to Jalandhar by bus and then took a train to Delhi.
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On Friday afternoon, the IPL authorities released a statement to confirm that the remainder of the tournament was suspended for one week with immediate effect. Later, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal said that there was no point continuing with the tournament amid the escalation of cross-border tension between India and Pakistan. He asserted that the situation with be assessed in the coming days and a decision regarding the scheduling of the remaining matches will be taken.
ICC Chairman Jay Shah also voiced strong support for the Indian armed forces. In an Instagram story, he praised their bravery, saying, “Our armed forces are our pride. We salute our brave men and women shielding our nation from terrorism.”
Franchises are looking at travel logistics for players. Indian players are returning home, while the overseas lot will be flown out with the assistance of the BCCI and team management.
