The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has been suspended for at least one week with immediate effect, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced on Friday. The decision was taken to show its support to the Indian armed forces and respect the national sentiment, as India is currently engaged in a conflict with Pakistan.
“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,” BCCI said in a press release, announcing the temporary suspension of IPL 2025.
“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. 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 temporary suspension of IPL 2025 is a prudent move by the BCCI, considering the ongoing tension and that they were forced to call off the match between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC) on Thursday in Dharamsala due to a security threat, as Pakistan targeted Indian cities with missiles and drones. Pakistan, however, wasn’t able to inflict any damage as Indian armed forces neutralised the missiles and drones through their Air Defence Systems.
Interestingly, the BCCI has suspended the IPL for only a week, as of now. Which means the cash-rich T20 league can be back on TV screens as early as next week.
When will IPL 2025 resume?
The BCCI, in its press release, said the new schedule for the remaining matches in IPL 2025 and the venues for them will be announced in “due course” after a “comprehensive assessment of the situation in consultation with relevant authorities and stakeholders.”
How many matches are left in IPL 2025?
The IPL 2025 consists of 70 league matches and four playoff games, including the final. So far, 58 league matches have been completed, including the suspended match between PBKS and DC at Dharamsala. 12 league games and four playoff matches are still to be completed.
Can IPL 2025 be delayed any further?
Yes. There’s a possibility. If the conflict between India and Pakistan escalates further and tensions grow at the border, then the IPL could be suspended for a longer period.
What if IPL 2025 cannot be resumed next week or completed by May 2025?
BCCI will hope to finish the IPL in May 2025 as India have a five-Test series in England that starts on 20 June. However, if they are unable to conduct the league in the near future and finish it by May or early June, then the next possible window is in August and September.
There are reports that India could boycott their tour to Bangladesh in August 2025 or that there may not be an Asia Cup in September. This window can be used to complete the IPL 2025.