IPL 2025 is set to proceed for now, despite escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following Indian military operations on Wednesday. These strikes, named Operation Sindoor, were a retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir last April, which tragically claimed 26 civilian lives.
While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has remained silent, uncertainty looms over the two scheduled IPL fixtures in Dharamshala this week. This northern Indian town is the secondary home ground for Punjab Kings (PBKS), who are slated to face Delhi Capitals (DC) on 8th May, followed by a match against Mumbai Indians (MI) on 11th May.
Mumbai Indians, narrowly beaten by Gujarat Titans (GT) in a nail-biting finish at home on Tuesday, were expected to arrive in Dharamshala by Thursday. However, travel plans are currently on hold due to Kangra airport’s closure. According to PTI, at least 18 airports around north and western India, including key ones like Srinagar, Jammu, and Amritsar, are temporarily shut as a precaution.
Arun Dhumal, the IPL chairman, has indicated that the match scheduled for Thursday evening between PBKS and DC is still set to go ahead. “We will abide by the Indian government advisory,” Dhumal informed ESPNcricinfo. He noted that as of Wednesday morning, no governmental directive had been issued affecting the matches. Dhumal also mentioned that the IPL operations team is in contact with relevant authorities to manage logistics for the teams travelling to and from Dharamshala.
Punjab Kings have been stationed in Dharamshala since last week, marking their presence with a victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their latest home game on Sunday. When questioned about the feasibility of relocating the 11th May match with MI, Dhumal explained that they are “working on the logistics” and ready with “alternate planning” if necessary.
