Why is IPL 2025 suspended?

The Board of Control for Cricket in India revealed that the 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) was abruptly cancelled on Friday due to the increasing tension between India and Pakistan, its neighbour. With immediate effect, the rest of the competition has been postponed for one week.

For security considerations, the Delhi Capitals vs. Punjab Kings IPL 2025 game at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala was cancelled on Thursday. This came after the floodlights of Dharamsala's HPCA Stadium went out. According to reports, IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal stated that the decision was made as a precaution because of the red alert that was issued in Jammu.

Following a high-stakes meeting of the BCCI senior brass, the decision was made against the backdrop of increased border tensions between India and Pakistan. Before this decision was made, it is understood that several options, including a potential venue change, were considered.

"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," the BCCI stated in its announcement.

The BCCI will have a week to rearrange the remaining league games, perhaps in southern and eastern locations, but the league's resumption is contingent only upon the armed situation between India and Pakistan de-escalating.

The remaining tournament may be held in the window that is set aside between the end of August and the beginning of September if there is not a favourable climate to resume the league and end in the regular window. This could potentially mean rescheduling the white-ball series against Bangladesh or even abandoning the Asia Cup, which India is set to host.

Even though the ban has been in place for a week, it is still unclear how the geopolitical scenario will develop over the coming days. How soon the issue settles down and whether player concerns can be adequately handled will probably determine BCCI's next course of action.

Stay updated with the latest cricket news, match insights, and exclusive updates at Sky365 and download the Sky365 App to start betting today!