As border tensions between India and Pakistan escalate, several overseas players participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 are reportedly seeking to return home. According to sources cited by PTI, many foreign cricketers have raised safety concerns and requested immediate travel arrangements.
This comes after the match between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC) at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala was abandoned midway on Thursday night. The cancellation followed air raid alerts in surrounding areas and what was initially attributed to a floodlight failure.
Match Cancelled, Players and Fans Evacuate
The PBKS vs DC match was halted with Punjab at 122/1 in 10.1 overs. The stadium went dark and later experienced a full evacuation as a precautionary measure.
Officials stated the decision was made to ensure the safety of the nearly 18,000 spectators and all players involved, including eight overseas cricketers in the two squads. The situation triggered a full security response and high alert in the region.
BCCI Reviews IPL’s Future Amid Crisis
IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal addressed the issue stating, “We are reviewing the situation. It is an evolving scenario. We haven’t received any directive from the government yet.” He assured that the safety of all stakeholders is the top priority.
While Friday’s LSG vs RCB match in Lucknow is expected to go ahead as scheduled, future games could be rescheduled or relocated. The May 11 match between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings has already been moved from Dharamsala to Ahmedabad.
Tensions Escalate After Pahalgam Terror Attack
The security concerns stem from India’s recent missile strikes targeting terror infrastructure across the border. These attacks followed the April 22 terror strike in Pahalgam, which killed 26 people.
As tensions rise, IPL organizers and participating teams face growing uncertainty. A final call on the tournament’s continuity is expected in the coming days, based on government advisories and evolving ground realities.
Stay tuned for further updates on IPL 2025 amid this developing crisis.
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