The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has been temporarily suspended, with uncertainty hanging over the fate of the tournament. After the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals game way called off midway on Thursday, both the teams were escorted out of Dharamsala on Friday morning by a special train. Following a high-stakes BCCI emergency meeting on Friday, it was decided to halt the IPL 2025 owing to the ongoing cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan. The discussions had been going on since Thursday evening and a virtual meeting with all the major stakeholders took place on Friday. So, what happens to the IPL now?
The BCCI is considering utilising the August-September window to complete the remainder of the tournament if the current situation does not stabilise soon, sources in the know of things told RevSportz. While it is a developing situation and there was an option to complete the IPL, with increased double-headers in the coming week, resuming the tournament in September is the best option on the table currently. With India unlikely to participate in the Asia Cup, scheduled for September, due to the ongoing tensions, the window could be utilised to complete the paused IPL 2025. If the IPL resumes in a week’s time then the matches could be conducted in the southern part of India.
The decision to halt the IPL comes after careful deliberation, with the BCCI exploring multiple options, including a potential change of venues. While a formal announcement is expected shortly, the BCCI has already communicated the suspension to all IPL franchises and stakeholders. The scheduled clash between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Lucknow on Friday was also called off.
As of now, 58 matches have been completed, with another 12 scheduled to be played in the league phase. There would also be four play-off games. According to the original itinerary, the final had been scheduled for Kolkata on May 25.
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The BCCI’s immediate priority is ensuring the safety and well-being of players, support staff, and all involved parties. Efforts are underway to prevent panic and maintain calm amid the disruptions, especially with overseas players. The suspension of the IPL has broader implications for India’s international cricket schedule. India is set to tour England for a five-match Test series starting in early June, leaving the August-September period as the only viable window to resume and complete the IPL if tensions persist.
Even if the IPL is concluded before the Bangladesh tour and Asia Cup, BCCI sources have firmly ruled out participation in these events. The BCCI is navigating a complex situation to safeguard its flagship T20 league and ensure stability for all stakeholders. The focus remains on resolving the current crisis and charting a path forward for the IPL.
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