IPL 2025 is on as of now: Chairman Arun Dhumal

IPL (Indian Premier League) chairman Arun Dhumal has said that the competition will go ahead as planned unless the Indian government gives the go-ahead, despite growing security concerns in the wake of cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan.

The match between the Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings at Dharamsala’s HPCA Stadium on May 8 was abandoned midway due to border tensions between India and Pakistan, posing an unprecedented challenge to the 2025 IPL. Dhumal has stated that the league will move forward for the time being, with choices being made based on future government directives.

“At the moment, we are assessing the issue. The scenario is changing. The government has not given us any directives.

“Obviously, the decision will be made with all the logistics in mind,” cited Arun Dhumal as saying.

It was first thought that a major mechanical malfunction at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium was the reason behind the cancellation of the Punjab Kings vs. Delhi Capitals match at Dharamsala during the eleventh over. Players and almost 80% of the 23,000-person crowd were evacuated after three lighting towers failed owing to power failures and escalating military activities in neighbouring areas.

Since air travel in the area has been halted, the BCCI has organised a special train to transport both teams and match officials to Delhi via Pathankot. Due to safety concerns, Punjab Kings’ upcoming game against the Mumbai Indians has also been moved from Dharamsala to Ahmedabad.

There have been 58 IPL 2025 matches played so far, with 12 league games and the playoffs left to be played at locations like Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Jaipur, Kolkata, and Lucknow. Significantly, Dhumal affirmed that the Lucknow Super Giants vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru game at the Ekana cricket venue on Friday will proceed according to plan.

“Yes, it is on as of now, but obviously it is an evolving situation and any decision will be taken keeping the best interest of all stakeholders in mind,” he declared.

The board has also been keeping a careful eye on the issue, and BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia provided an explanation for the decision to postpone the game. He declared that the players’, officials’, and supporters’ safety is the first concern and that additional measures will be implemented with that in mind.

We have cancelled today’s match because of the unstable scenario, which is not limited to Dharamsala; it is also a result of the bordering country’s rising tensions. Our first concern is the security of the players, fans, and support personnel. We shall take every action that is best for the participating countries. We’re keeping a careful eye on things and will adjust our decisions if necessary,” he stated.