The IPL suspension is now official with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) suspension of the tournament in the wake of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The move followed the cancellation of the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals match in Dharamsala, a city less than 100 km from Pathankot, and which recently issued air raid warnings.
A BCCI official told, “We’ve decided to suspend IPL 2025 indefinitely. Our top priority is the safety of players, staff, and fans. The nation’s interest matters most right now. We will evaluate the situation later to decide if and when the tournament resumes.”
The Dharamsala match, delayed by rain, stopped suddenly when the floodlights failed. What seemed like a technical glitch soon turned serious. Officials informed teams about growing security risks due to alerts in nearby Pathankot. A player shared with Indian Express that both teams felt panic. Foreign players especially showed concern for their safety.
Fans filled about 80% of the stadium before being evacuated. Many shouted anti-Pakistan slogans as they exited. The IPL Governing Council and BCCI reviewed the worsening situation immediately. IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal said they were waiting for final instructions from the government.
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India-Pakistan Tensions Escalate
The tension rose after a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which killed 26 civilians. In response, India launched precision strikes on terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. These strikes targeted camps of Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. India also increased military readiness across border areas.
By 8 May, some districts of Punjab, and Chandigarh, were blacked out and sirens were blared. There were explosions near Jammu. Pakistan attacked some Indian cities, including Pathankot and Jammu, that night. Indian Armed Forces were able to thwart those attacks.
PSL Moved, Flights Cancelled
Dharamsala airport shut down all flights. IPL teams left the region under strict security. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced a venue change for the remaining Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches. The league will now continue in the UAE.
