The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially paused the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The decision was announced on Friday following security concerns in the northern regions.
The 58th match of the league — between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) — was abruptly suspended at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium in Dharamshala. The game was halted midway after air raid alerts were issued in Jammu and Pathankot. While the official reason cited by the IPL was a floodlight malfunction, heightened security threats were the underlying cause. Players were swiftly escorted off the field and the stadium was evacuated as a precaution.
Earlier, visuals emerged of IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal urging fans to vacate the venue calmly. The abrupt disruption raised serious questions about the continuity of the tournament.
A scheduled clash between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was also cancelled under similar circumstances due to a power outage in Dharamshala, further intensifying concerns over player and public safety.
Following these incidents, the BCCI convened an emergency meeting where officials decided to await further directions from the central government before resuming the league. IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal confirmed that future steps would be aligned with national security advisories.
The next match, which was set to feature Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), has also been put on indefinite hold.
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