The 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) was abruptly suspended on Friday due to the ongoing tension between India and its bordering country, Pakistan, as confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India. The remainder of the tournament has been suspended for one week with immediate effect.
On Thursday, the 2025 match between and at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala was called off due to security reasons. This was after the floodlights at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala went off. Arun Dhumal, Chairman, reportedly said that the decision was taken as a precautionary measure, based on the red alert issued in .
The Indian armed forces launched precision missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied and Kashmir, including the strongholds of Jaish-e-Mohammed in Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Muridke. The strikes were in response to the attack in Pahalgam in which 26 people, mostly tourists, were gunned down.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to suspend the remainder of the ongoing IPL 2025 with immediate effect for one week. 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 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.
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.
The BCCI thanks its key stakeholder – Jiostar, the league’s official broadcaster for their understanding and unwavering support. The Board is also grateful to Title sponsor TATA and all associate partners and stakeholders for coming forward with their unequivocal support for this decision and for putting national interest above all other considerations.
–Honorary Secretary, Devajit Saikia
