In the wake of rising India-Pakistan border tensions, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has suspended the remainder of the IPL 2025 season for one week, effective immediately, as announced in a media advisory by board secretary Devajit Saikia on Friday, May 9.
With safety and logistical concerns mounting, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad have reportedly been shortlisted as potential venues for the 16 remaining matches, should the league resume later in May, according to a report published by ESPNcricinfo. These cities have been considered due to their secure environments, available infrastructure, and historical success in hosting high-stakes fixtures.
Security Takes Precedence
The decision to pause the tournament was made in response to increased border hostilities, and the BCCI emphasized that further updates will follow only after a detailed security assessment and discussions with all stakeholders involved. While the suspension is temporary, restarting the tournament presents its own challenges.
Franchise officials have reportedly been informally briefed about the possible shift in venues. However, several team representatives have expressed doubts about whether the remaining season can be completed within the current calendar month. They also acknowledged the possibility of postponing the tournament to later this year, depending on the prevailing situation.
Impact on Overseas Players and Fixtures
Following the suspension announcement, the BCCI quickly arranged chartered flights for all overseas players, ensuring their safe departure from India. Franchises remain hopeful of international players’ return if the tournament resumes within May, but there is no guarantee beyond May 25 due to overlapping bilateral series and the upcoming WTC Final between Australia and South Africa (June 11-15 at Lord’s).
With tight international schedules ahead, particularly for key players from Australia, England, and South Africa, the board faces increasing pressure to conclude IPL 2025 within a shrinking window.
Match Abandonment and Red Alert
The abrupt call-off of the May 8 match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala added to the growing uncertainty. Initially reported as a “technical” issue by broadcasters, IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal later confirmed that the stadium evacuation occurred due to a red alert issued in nearby Jammu.
This incident only reinforced the urgency for BCCI to reassess venue safety and finalize more secure host cities.
What’s Left in IPL 2025?
Before the suspension, the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League had completed 57 matches. The tournament still has 12 league games and 4 playoff matches pending. As of now, the final fate of the tournament hangs in the balance as fans, franchises, and players await further clarity from the BCCI.
If Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad do end up hosting the remainder of the tournament, it would mark a return to more centralized scheduling — something seen during the bio-bubble era — and could help ease the logistical and safety complexities currently facing the league.
