IPL To Resume: Franchises Asked to Assemble Players

Mumbai. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has directed all Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises, except Punjab Kings, to assemble their players at their respective venues by Tuesday, May 13, 2025, signaling a swift resumption of the IPL 2025 season. The decision follows a ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan on Saturday, May 10, 2025, which has eased tensions that led to the league’s suspension on Friday, May 9, 2025. The BCCI aims to complete the remaining 12 league matches and four playoff games by the original schedule’s end date of May 25, 2025, by incorporating more double-header matches.

The IPL was abruptly halted after 57 matches due to escalating India-Pakistan border tensions, culminating in the abandonment of the 58th match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala on May 8, 2025, when floodlights failed amid security concerns. Following the suspension, most overseas players and support staff left India, but franchises are now coordinating their return. The BCCI has verbally informed teams to prepare for a new schedule, with Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad shortlisted as potential venues for the remaining games, pending government approval. Punjab Kings’ venue remains undecided, as they will play at a neutral location.

“All franchises have been told to inform their teams to report to their respective destinations by Tuesday. Punjab will have a neutral venue, so their destination is yet to be confirmed. The board is planning more double headers to finish the IPL as per its scheduled day,” a BCCI source confirmed. IPL chairman Arun Dhumal emphasized the urgency of resuming the league, stating, “Ceasefire has just been announced. We now explore the possibility of resuming and concluding the IPL immediately… We will consult with the government and all stakeholders, including team owners and broadcasters, to move forward.”

The BCCI’s proactive approach includes discussions with franchise officials, who are optimistic about recalling overseas players, though availability remains a challenge, especially with the World Test Championship final looming from June 11 to 15, 2025, involving key Australian and South African players. BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla noted that a final decision on the schedule and venues will be made on Sunday, May 11, 2025, after consultations with the IPL Governing Council and government authorities.

The suspension caused significant financial strain, with reports estimating a loss of ₹125 crore per match for the BCCI. Fans and players, including Virat Kohli, who expressed solidarity with the Indian armed forces, have supported the BCCI’s prioritization of national security. As the board works to finalize logistics, the focus is on ensuring player safety and delivering the remaining matches in a secure environment, potentially in southern India, to conclude the 18th IPL season as planned.