The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced special guidelines for the IPL 2025 clash between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Mumbai Indians (MI), scheduled for Wednesday, April 23, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.
In response to the tragic terror attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam region, which claimed at least 26 lives, the BCCI has taken steps to honour the victims and express solidarity. A two-minute silence will be observed before the start of the match, and players from both teams will wear black armbands as a mark of respect. Additionally, there will be no cheerleaders or fireworks during the game as a gesture of mourning.
BCCI stands with the victims
The horrific incident took place near a popular tourist destination on Tuesday afternoon, prompting the cricketing body to swiftly implement these measures. The entire cricketing fraternity is uniting to condemn the act and honour those affected.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia issued a statement saying, “The cricketing community is deeply shocked and anguished by the tragic loss of innocent lives in the gruesome terror attack at Pahalgam yesterday. On behalf of the BCCI, while condemning this ghastly and cowardly act in the strongest possible terms, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the departed souls. We stand hand in hand with them in this hour of tragedy.”
From a cricketing perspective, the match holds high stakes. SRH are in a must-win situation to keep their playoff hopes alive, while MI are riding high after a resurgence with three consecutive wins. Having already beaten SRH earlier this season, MI will be aiming for a double over the Orange Army.