IPL 2025 to Resume on May 17 After Ceasefire Between India and Pakistan
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to resume on May 17, following a temporary suspension caused by escalating tensions and cross-border conflict between India and Pakistan, tournament organisers confirmed on Monday.
The IPL was suspended for a week last Friday after intense fighting erupted between the two nuclear-armed neighbours—marking one of the worst military escalations in nearly three decades. The IPL Governing Council, after consulting franchises and players, made the decision to pause the league amid growing security concerns.
However, with a fragile ceasefire now in place—brokered through diplomatic channels and US intervention—the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the resumption of matches.
“After extensive consultations with government and security agencies and with all key stakeholders, the Board has decided to proceed with the remainder of the season,” the BCCI said in a statement.
The revised schedule will see the remaining 17 matches—including 12 group-stage fixtures—played across six cities:
- Bengaluru
- Jaipur
- Delhi
- Lucknow
- Mumbai
- Ahmedabad
The tournament will conclude with the final on June 3, 2025, and will feature two Sunday double-headers. Details for the playoff venues will be announced later.
Earlier in the month, a match in Dharamsala was abandoned mid-game due to a power outage, while another fixture in the same city was relocated to Ahmedabad due to rising tensions before ultimately being postponed.
The recent flare-up between India and Pakistan involved drone and missile exchanges, shelling, and a deadly confrontation that left dozens dead. India accused Pakistan of backing an attack in Kashmir, claims that Islamabad denied.
In the aftermath of the conflict, a number of foreign players exited India, and the Pakistan Super League (PSL) was also put on hold. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had initially planned to relocate the final eight matches to the UAE, but the plan was shelved on the advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
The resumption of the IPL comes as a signal of returning stability in the region and is likely to be closely watched by cricket fans worldwide.
