The 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) has been postponed indefinitely following escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) made the difficult decision after foreign players expressed safety concerns and sought to return home.
Why Was IPL 2025 Postponed?
The decision came after Thursday’s (May 8) match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala was abruptly called off due to air strike warnings near Jammu and Pathankot. With national security taking precedence, the BCCI concluded that continuing the tournament amid rising hostilities was not feasible.
A senior BCCI official stated, “Cricket cannot take priority when the nation faces a crisis. The safety of players, staff, and fans is our foremost concern.” The league, originally set to conclude on May 25 in Kolkata, will now resume at a later, undisclosed date.
Impact on IPL 2025 Season
So far, 58 out of 74 scheduled matches (including group stages, playoffs, and finals) have been completed. The remaining 16 matches will be rescheduled once conditions stabilize. This marks the first time in IPL history that the tournament has been suspended due to geopolitical tensions.
