Will IPL 2025 Be Cancelled Due to India-Pakistan Conflict? IPL Chairman Responds

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In the wake of rising hostilities between India and Pakistan following a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, speculation about the possible cancellation of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 started making headlines.

Both the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal have firmly confirmed that IPL 2025 will not be cancelled, and necessary steps are being taken to ensure the safety of players, officials, and fans.

Match Relocation and Tightened Security Measures

"Everyone was screaming that there are bombs coming" – Cheerleader shares her ordeal as PBKS vs DC IPL 2025 clash in Dharamsala is called off#IPL2025 #PBKSvsDC #IndiaPakistanWar #dharamshalastadium https://t.co/3Rb64Mgy7U
— SiddzCricket (@SiddzCricket) May 8, 2025

Due to the volatile situation in certain border states, the BCCI has already relocated at least one IPL fixture. The Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians match, initially scheduled in Dharamsala, was shifted to Ahmedabad after the closure of the Dharamsala airport and increased military activity in the region. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia emphasized that logistical and security concerns led to this decision, not fear among the players.

Foreign Players Comfortable, Says BCCI

According to rumors about possible withdrawals by international cricketers, Saikia reassured fans that foreign players are comfortable and committed to completing the tournament.

He says none of the franchises have reported discomfort or intent to pull out. All players have been informed, and enhanced security protocols have been introduced.

IPL Chairman Supports ICC’s Neutral Venue Policy

IPL President Arun Singh Dhumal asks people to vacate the stadium as soon as the IPL match is stopped amid tensions with pakistan.
.#stadiumblackout
.#india #ipl2025 #arunsinghdhumal #warstopssport #dharamshala #indvpak #hpca #dharamshalacricketstadium #nitinphotos pic.twitter.com/1zu3mv4YkQ
— Nitin Koundal (@Nitinkoundal_) May 8, 2025

IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal has also endorsed the ICC’s decision to hold India-Pakistan matches at neutral venues until 2027. He noted that it clarifies scheduling and eases pressure on the host nations, especially given the current tensions.

While this policy applies to ICC tournaments, it underscores the broader challenges in organizing bilateral matches between the two countries.

Inzamam-ul-Haq Urges Boycott of IPL by Foreign Players

Meanwhile, former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq called on foreign cricket boards to reconsider sending players to the IPL. His statement referenced the BCCI’s long-standing policy of not allowing Indian cricketers to participate in overseas T20 leagues. However, this view hasn’t received official backing from other cricket boards, and the participation of foreign stars in IPL 2025 remains unaffected.

IPL 2025 is progressing smoothly despite geopolitical tensions, with modified schedules and enhanced security. The BCCI and IPL management remain committed to hosting the tournament without compromising safety. While the situation between India and Pakistan remains tense, the cricketing community continues to support the spirit of the game.

FAQs

Q. Will IPL 2025 be cancelled due to the India-Pakistan war?

A. No, IPL 2025 will not be cancelled. The BCCI has confirmed that the tournament will continue as planned. Some matches may be moved to safer locations, but the league will go on with tight security.

Q. Are foreign players safe and still playing in IPL 2025?

A. Yes, foreign players are safe and still playing in the IPL. The BCCI has said that all players are comfortable with the current arrangements and no one has withdrawn because of the situation.

Q. Why was the Dharamsala match moved to Ahmedabad?

A. The match was shifted from Dharamsala to Ahmedabad for safety and travel reasons. Due to the conflict, the local airport was closed, and there were security concerns, so the BCCI decided to move the match to a safer place.