‘BCCI To Discuss IPL Resumption Options On Sunday’: Rajeev Shukla
New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to convene on Sunday to explore options for resuming the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, which was halted due to escalating tensions along the India-Pakistan border. BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla announced that board officials and the IPL Governing Council will meet to determine the most feasible schedule to complete the suspended T20 tournament, following a recently declared ceasefire between India and Pakistan.
The IPL was abruptly paused on Friday, leaving 16 matches 12 league-stage games and four playoff contests unplayed. The suspension came as the border conflict, sparked by the Pahalgam terror attack and India’s subsequent Operation Sindoor, raised fears of a broader military escalation. Shukla noted, “The war has stopped. In the new situation, BCCI office bearers, officials, and IPL Governing Council will discuss the matter tomorrow and take a call. We will see which can be the best schedule to complete the tournament.”
Speculation had arisen about relocating the remaining matches to southern cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad to avoid conflict zones. However, Shukla clarified that such a move was considered only during the height of the military crisis. “That was an option when war was going on. There are many options which have been discussed. The ceasefire has just been announced, give some time to us, we will discuss and then only a decision will be taken,” he told .
The tournament faced significant disruptions, including the abandonment of Thursday’s match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala due to security concerns. With the local airport closed, players and staff were transported by bus to Jalandhar and then by train to Delhi. Many overseas players, integral to the IPL’s global appeal, have already left India amid the uncertainty.
A senior IPL source, familiar with broadcaster and production logistics, suggested that most original venues might retain their matches, with the possible exception of Dharamsala. “The broadcasters had initially asked its production unit to stay back in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai when the military crisis was deepening. But after the announcement of ceasefire, the crew has been instructed to stay put in all the original venues,” the source told PTI. This could mean cities like Kolkata will host their scheduled games, while the Dharamsala match may be rescheduled elsewhere.
The BCCI’s Sunday meeting will focus on crafting a viable plan to conclude the IPL 2025 season, balancing logistical challenges and the safe return of players and staff, as the cricketing world awaits a resolution.