IPL 2025 to Continue Amid Cross-Border Tensions; Dharamshala Fixtures Under Scrutiny

The Indian Premier League 2025 is set to continue for now despite heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the Indian army’s pre-dawn missile strikes on Pakistani sites as part of Operation Sindoor. The strikes were launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir this April, which claimed 26 civilian lives. While the Indian government has framed the operation as a targeted counter-terror move, its ripple effects are beginning to be felt in the world of cricket — particularly in the north Indian venues.

Doubts have emerged over the immediate future of two upcoming matches in Dharamshala, the scenic second home ground of Punjab Kings. The venue is scheduled to host Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals on May 8, followed by Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians on May 11. However, logistical complications have surfaced due to the temporary closure of airports across northern and western India, including both Kangra (which serves Dharamshala) and Chandigarh. The closures are part of a broader Indian government security lockdown that has grounded operations at at least 18 airports, including those in Srinagar, Leh, Jammu, Amritsar, Pathankot, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer.

Mumbai Indians, who were to travel to Dharamshala after their last-ball defeat against Gujarat Titans, have had their travel plans paused until further notice. Punjab Kings, however, are already in Dharamshala, having played and won their previous home fixture against Lucknow Super Giants last Sunday.

IPL chairman Arun Dhumal confirmed that the May 8 fixture remains on the schedule for now. He said the IPL governing body is closely coordinating with government agencies and will follow any advisories that may be issued. While no formal directive to cancel or relocate matches has come from the central government as of Wednesday morning, Dhumal acknowledged that contingency plans are being explored, particularly for the May 11 match.

The IPL’s approach so far has been to maintain normalcy while preparing for swift changes if required. Any rescheduling or relocation could be complex, given the tight travel and broadcast schedules that define the latter stages of the tournament. The league has previously dealt with challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic and politically sensitive moments, and its ability to pivot quickly could again be tested.

For now, the fate of the Dharamshala matches — and potentially other fixtures in the north — remains tied to how the situation between India and Pakistan unfolds in the coming days.

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