Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, May 9: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to suspend the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season indefinitely, following heightened military tensions between India and Pakistan. The decision was taken at an emergency meeting held on Friday, May 9, sources confirmed.

The situation took a serious turn after Thursday's match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamshala was abandoned midway, shortly after air and drone strikes from Pakistan led to power outages in nearby areas including Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampur. With the venue lying close to these affected zones, the safety of players and officials became a pressing concern.

“The decision to suspend the tournament was taken after consultations with all concerned authorities,” sources in the BCCI revealed. “The board stands firmly with the nation during this critical time. At present, there is no set timeline for resumption.”

The ongoing conflict saw India conducting targeted operations on May 7 and 8, aimed at terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, in retaliation for a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives. In response, Pakistan attempted aerial strikes on strategic locations in northern and western India, which were effectively countered by Indian defence systems.

Following the abrupt halt of the Dharamshala game, several foreign players, particularly Australians, reportedly expressed unease over the unfolding security situation. As a precaution, arrangements have been made to evacuate players from both teams, along with officials, commentators, broadcasters, and support staff via a special train to a secure location.

While the suspension is currently indefinite, sources indicate that a potential rescheduling of the remaining matches may be considered later in the year depending on the national situation.