BCCI halts IPL 2025 for one week amid national security concerns

The ongoing season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has been suspended for one week, effective immediately, as confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on May 9.

As a result, the scheduled match between Lucknow Super Giants and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Lucknow has been canceled.

Additionally, the previous day’s game between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala was also postponed.

BCCI honorary secretary Devajit Saikia said, "The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to suspend the remainder of the ongoing TATA IPL 2025 with immediate effect for one week.”

“Further updates regarding the new schedule and venues of the tournament will be announced in due course after a comprehensive assessment of the situation in consultation with relevant authorities and stakeholders,” Saikia added.

The decision was made by the IPL Governing Council after consulting all major stakeholders, including franchise representatives, broadcasters, sponsors, and fans.

Saikia noted, "The decision was taken by the IPL Governing Council after due consultation with all key stakeholders following the representations from most of the franchisees, who conveyed the concern and sentiments of their players, and also the views of the broadcaster, sponsors, and fans; while the BCCI reposes full faith in the strength and preparedness of our armed forces, the Board considered it prudent to act in the collective interest of all stakeholders."

Expressing support for national security efforts, the BCCI extended its solidarity with the government and military.

"At this critical juncture, the BCCI stands firmly with the nation. We express our solidarity with the Government of India, the Armed Forces, and the people of our country,” said Saikia.

“The Board salutes the bravery, courage, and selfless service of our armed forces, whose heroic efforts under Operation Sindoor continue to protect and inspire the nation, as they lead a resolute response to the recent terrorist attack and the unwarranted aggression by Pakistan’s armed forces,” the secretary added.

Saikia continued, "While cricket remains a national passion, there is nothing greater than the nation and its sovereignty, integrity, and security of our country. The BCCI remains firmly committed to supporting all efforts that safeguard India and will always align its decisions in the best interest of the nation."

The BCCI also acknowledged the cooperation of its partners.

"The BCCI thanks its key stakeholder — Jiostar, the league’s official broadcaster — for their understanding and unwavering support. The board is also grateful to title sponsor TATA and all associate partners and stakeholders for coming forward with their unequivocal support for this decision and for putting national interest above all other considerations,” Saikia said.

The suspension comes two weeks after India conducted missile strikes targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, following the deadly April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that left 26 people dead.

In the wake of these developments, several areas in Punjab and Chandigarh implemented blackout protocols amid air raid warnings and reported explosions in Jammu.

This latest disruption adds to a history of IPL interruptions, which have previously been caused by general elections, the COVID-19 pandemic, and regional security threats.