New Delhi: In response to the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the indefinite suspension of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. The decision follows growing concerns about the ongoing geopolitical crisis and the impact it would have on the tournament.
The IPL, which was initially scheduled to conclude on May 25, has been put on hold indefinitely, with the BCCI stating that further updates will be provided as the situation evolves. The cancellation of Thursday’s match between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC) in Dharamsala marked the beginning of the suspension, and sources from the BCCI have confirmed that the league will not resume until the crisis de-escalates.
A BCCI official explained the reasoning behind the suspension: “It does not look right for cricket to continue while the country is at war. The decision was made after consulting with all concerned authorities.”
IPL Teams Show Unity in Support of Armed Forces
In a show of solidarity with the Indian armed forces, various IPL teams took to social media to express their support for the nation. Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Mumbai Indians (MI), and Punjab Kings (PBKS) all shared heartfelt messages saluting the bravery and sacrifice of India’s defense forces.
CSK’s Instagram post read, “Courage in every step. Pride in every heartbeat. Saluting our armed forces!” Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) shared a simple yet powerful message: “Nation first,” while Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) wrote, “Standing tall, guarding us all – the Indian Armed Forces, our living shield. Nation comes first.”
RCB posted a moving message: “In this hour of national crisis, we salute the unwavering courage and bravery of our Indian Armed Forces, and pray for the safety of everyone in India. Jai Hind.” SRH also posted a tribute: “We salute the unwavering dedication of the Indian Armed Forces,” while MI’s message was: “We stand together with strength, with solidarity, with our armed forces. Jai Hind.”
Punjab Kings (PBKS) shared an Indian flag with a heart emoji, expressing their respect and solidarity with the military. Delhi Capitals (DC), who are currently traveling away from Dharamsala, have not yet released their official statement.
Players Past and Present Express Solidarity
The suspension has also seen numerous IPL players past and present showing their support for the armed forces. Surya Kumar Yadav tweeted, “Massively proud of our forces and their resilience. You are the reason we stay unharmed, at our homes. Big salute to your strength and determination in protecting us at borders. We thank you. Jai Hind.”
Ambati Rayudu shared his empathy for the families of soldiers stationed at the border: “I can’t even comprehend what our families at the borders are going through right now. I stand with my people and I empathize with the families at the borders. India stands united not in hate, but in unwavering belief that justice must prevail.”
Shikhar Dhawan, Krunal Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, and Virat Kohli also expressed their deep gratitude to the forces. Bumrah shared, “Grateful to our armed forces for their courage and bravery. We salute them and remain forever in their debt for everything that they do to keep us safe.”
Virat Kohli posted on Instagram: “We stand in solidarity with and salute our armed forces for fiercely protecting our country in these difficult times. We are forever indebted to our heroes for their unwavering bravery and heartfelt gratitude for the sacrifices they and their families make for our great nation. Jai Hind.”
