IPL 2025 suspended for a week amid heightened Indo-Pak tension

The remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has been temporarily suspended. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the development, clarifying in a media release that the suspension is for a week at the moment.

Cricbuzz understands that the decision, taken against the backdrop of heightened border tensions between India and Pakistan, follows a high-stakes meeting of the BCCI top brass. It is understood that various options including a possible change of venues were mulled before this decision was taken.

"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 BCCI said in the release.

"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 further said.

The move to suspend the league comes close on the heels of Thursday's (May 8) called-off match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala and amid growing anxiety among overseas players. With all options on the table, the BCCI have opted for a temporary suspension, keeping the safety and interests of all stakeholders in mind.

One of the immediate concerns was the safe movement of the stakeholders. In its bid to transport all involved in the IPL, including teams, players, broadcast crews and other league staff from Dharamsala to New Delhi, utmost secrecy is being maintained. Those involved were told to board the bus at their hotels in Dharamsala but they have not been told where they will board the train to Delhi from. At the time of writing this, they're in the bus with no information of the exact destination.

IPL chairman Arun Dhumal earlier stated that any further decisions would be made in consultation with the government. "We are reviewing the situation. It's evolving, and we haven't received any directive from the government yet. Any decision will be taken keeping all logistical considerations and the best interests of stakeholders in mind," Dhumal had said.

While the suspension is officially for a week now, it remains to be seen how the geopolitical situation unfolds in the next few days. BCCI's next move will likely depend on how quickly the situation stabilizes and whether player concerns can be effectively addressed.

*This news article was updated after BCCI's media release