In a sudden twist ahead of IPL 2025 fixtures, Punjab Kings’ (PBKS) upcoming matches have been thrown into uncertainty due to airspace and airport closures triggered by Operation Sindoor—a major security operation near the India-Pakistan border.
As per a report from The Times of India, key airports including Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Jodhpur, Bhuj, Jamnagar, and Rajkot have been shut until 5:30 AM IST on May 10, significantly impacting the travel plans of multiple IPL teams.
PBKS and DC Already in Dharamsala
Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals (DC), scheduled to face off on May 8 at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium in Dharamsala, have already reached the venue before the closures were enforced. This puts them in a relatively secure position compared to other teams affected by travel disruptions.
Mumbai Indians’ Travel Plans Affected
Mumbai Indians (MI), who played against Gujarat Titans in Mumbai on Tuesday, were expected to travel to Dharamsala for their May 11 match. However, with Dharamsala, Amritsar, and Chandigarh airports shut, MI now face major logistical challenges.
BCCI Scrambling for Alternatives
A senior BCCI official revealed that alternate travel plans are under consideration, including road travel from Delhi—the nearest operational airport. However, this would involve a long and strenuous road journey through mountainous terrain.
“There is no option because even Chandigarh airport is shut. We need to see what can be done. Two teams are already here and MI were supposed to arrive later this week for their match on May 11. The nearest option is the Delhi airport, but that would mean a long road journey for the teams. We are tracking government advisories and will take the call as necessary,” said the BCCI official.
Flights Suspended, Airlines on Alert
Several airlines have suspended flights to affected regions and issued travel advisories to passengers. Operations will resume only after clearance from the authorities.
Matches Still On (For Now)
Despite the complications, the May 8 PBKS vs DC match is likely to go ahead as scheduled, barring any updates from the Indian government. The BCCI is reportedly working on contingency plans in case travel remains restricted beyond May 10.
With Dharamsala scheduled to host two IPL matches this week, fans and franchises await further updates from BCCI and state authorities. The situation remains fluid, and any changes to the IPL schedule will depend on national security protocols and travel feasibility.
