The 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been suspended for one week with immediate effect, according to an announcement made by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday, May 9, 2025. This decision arrives amidst escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan.
The suspension follows the abrupt cancellation of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) versus Delhi Capitals (DC) match in Dharamsala on Thursday, which was halted midway due to air raid alerts sounded in nearby regions like Jammu and Pathankot. Reports indicate that Pakistan launched eight missiles toward Indian territories, including Satwari, Samba, RS Pura, and Arnia, all of which were successfully intercepted by India's air defense systems. Furthermore, the Pakistan Super League (PSL) has also postponed its matches.
The BCCI released a media advisory through its honorary secretary, Devajit Saikia, stating that further updates regarding the tournament's new schedule and venues would be announced after a comprehensive assessment of the situation, in consultation with relevant authorities and stakeholders. The IPL's statement indicated that the decision to suspend the season came after representations from most franchisees, who conveyed the concerns and sentiments of their players, as well as the views of the broadcaster, sponsors, and fans.
Following the suspension, franchises are currently working on travel logistics for players. Indian players are expected to return to their hometowns, while the BCCI and team management are assisting overseas players with arrangements to fly out of the country. The suspension has triggered anxiety among foreign players. Teams are currently scattered across various cities, with DC and PBKS en route to Delhi, Mumbai Indians (MI) returning to Mumbai from Ahmedabad, Gujarat Titans (GT) in Delhi, and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) potentially dispersing directly from Lucknow.
The IPL attracts many of the world's top players and boasts an estimated viewership of 500 million people. The final was scheduled for May 25 at Kolkata's Eden Gardens. The unexpected suspension has led to various reactions, including a video circulating of Delhi Capitals stars relaxing in a river near Dharamsala following the abrupt halt of their match.
The current situation has also impacted potential cricket matches between India and Pakistan. According to India head coach Gambhir, there will be no cricket matches between the two nations until the situation is resolved.
