Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, May 27: The grand finale of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, now scheduled for June 3 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, will serve as a powerful tribute to the Indian Armed Forces, in recognition of their valour during Operation Sindoor.

The operation was launched following a devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the IPL Governing Council have chosen to dedicate the final to honour the armed forces and commemorate the victims of the tragedy.

“We have invited all three service chiefs of the Indian Armed Forces to attend the IPL final. The theme is to honour our heroes of Operation Sindoor,” said IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal, confirming the move.

Formal invitations have been extended to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Chief of Naval Staff, and Chief of Air Staff for the high-stakes cricketing event.

The IPL 2025 season faced an unexpected pause earlier this month, when military tensions between India and Pakistan escalated following the Pahalgam attack. The tournament was suspended for a week, as India undertook military action across the Line of Control (LoC) and in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

After both countries agreed to a ceasefire, the IPL resumed under a revised schedule, with the final date moved from May 26 to June 3, and the remaining matches being played across six selected venues.

Since resuming, the BCCI has made visible efforts to express solidarity with the armed forces. Every game has begun with the national anthem, and stadium screens have displayed messages such as “Thank You, Armed Forces”.

The Punjab Kings, Gujarat Titans, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Mumbai Indians have secured spots in the playoffs, and the tournament now builds towards a finale that promises both sporting spectacle and patriotic tribute.