The Dharamsala match was called off midway due to air raid alerts in nearby cities, including Jammu and Pathankot
The continuation of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is uncertain following the cancellation of match 58, which was played between the Punjab Kings and the Delhi Capitals at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on Thursday. (Full Coverage | Points Table | More Cricket News)
IPL chairman Arun Dhumal stated that they are awaiting government directives before making a decision on whether to proceed with the league amid the ongoing military conflict with Pakistan. However, he confirmed that Friday's match between the Lucknow Super Giants and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru "is on as of now."
The Dharamsala match was called off midway due to air raid alerts in nearby cities, including Jammu and Pathankot.
"We are currently reviewing the situation. It is evolving, and we have not yet received any directives from the government. Any decision will consider all logistical aspects," Dhumal told PTI.
When asked about Friday's game in Lucknow, he remarked, "Yes, it is on as of now, but it remains an evolving situation. Any decisions will be made with the best interests of all stakeholders in mind." Following the abandonment of the match in Dharamsala, players and support staff from both teams will be transported to Delhi via a special train from Pathankot, which is approximately 85 km from the hill town.
India's military actions are in retaliation for the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22.
The question now arises: What will happen if the IPL season is suspended?
The IPL was previously played in segments during the 2021 edition and was suspended indefinitely due to a surge in COVID-19 cases. However, the second phase resumed on September 19, culminating in the final held on October 15 in Dubai.
If the IPL is suspended once again, the remaining matches will be rescheduled by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the IPL governing council.
As it stands, following 58 matches, the Gujarat Titans lead the points table with 16 points, while the Royal Challengers Bengaluru are in second place, also with 16 points. The Punjab Kings have 16 points but have played 12 matches.
The Mumbai Indians currently sit in fourth place, followed by the Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Lucknow Super Giants. The Sunrisers Hyderabad, Rajasthan Royals, and Chennai Super Kings have already been eliminated from the playoff race.