Despite recent tensions between India and Pakistan, both countries had continued with their respective domestic franchise tournaments. However, on May 8, the IPL match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala was abruptly halted midway due to security concerns, leading to the suspension of the entire tournament. Meanwhile, uncertainty also clouded the Pakistan Super League (PSL) following a drone attack.
Now, with a ceasefire officially declared between the two nations, cricket is set to return. However, several questions have emerged regarding the future of the IPL, especially concerning the abandoned Punjab vs Delhi match.
The BCCI has announced that the match will be replayed on May 24 as per a revised schedule. However, the previous 10.1 overs played before the suspension will not be taken into account. The match will restart from scratch, including a fresh toss.
The match on May 8 had a delayed start. After winning the toss and choosing to bat, Punjab raced to 122 for 1 in just 10.1 overs. But play was interrupted when the floodlights suddenly went out. Citing a security threat, IPL authorities instructed the stadium to be evacuated. With the situation unresolved, the match was officially abandoned.
The BCCI is ready to reschedule the match, but concerns remain regarding the availability of overseas players. Due to conflicting international commitments, several foreign stars may not be available for the resumption. The World Test Championship final begins on May 11, followed by the England–West Indies ODI series from May 29, and the Australian squad, including Pat Cummins, is set to tour England in early June.
Following the Dharamsala incident, the BCCI suspended the IPL for a week. With flights suspended across northwest India, players had to be transported to Delhi by train. If all goes according to plan, the 2025 edition of the IPL will resume on May 17.
