The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has been officially suspended as of Friday, May 9, in the wake of escalating military tensions and serious national security concerns between India and Pakistan.
The abrupt decision came just hours after the scheduled match between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC) in Dharamsala was postponed. On the same day, Pakistan reportedly fired eight missiles toward Indian territories including Satwari, Samba, RS Pura, and Arnia all of which were successfully intercepted by India’s air defence systems.
While no IPL venue was directly attacked, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the IPL Governing Council acted swiftly, placing player safety and operational security above all else.
The suspension comes at a critical stage in the season, with 16 matches remaining 12 league games and four playoff fixtures. This marks the first major disruption to the IPL since the 2021 COVID-19 pandemic, when the tournament was halted due to bio-bubble breaches and rising infections. That season eventually resumed in the UAE.
Signs of instability had been visible for days. A previous match between PBKS and Mumbai Indians was already moved from Dharamsala to Ahmedabad after northern Indian airspace was restricted by government orders.
On May 9, with the PBKS vs DC fixture officially called off, players, officials, and broadcasters were evacuated via a special train arranged by the BCCI.
BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla confirmed, “We’re organising a train to bring everyone back safely. The match has been called off, and the stadium evacuated. We will decide on the tournament’s future based on tomorrow’s situation, but player safety is our top priority.”
With missiles flying and cricket fields deserted, the nation now braces for what comes next. The IPL may return but for now, war has claimed the wicket.
