The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has encountered a mid-season disruption, with the league being suspended for a week due to tensions between India and Pakistan. As a result, several international players have opted to return home, uncertain about the tournament’s future.
This sudden departure of players comes at a time when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is working on a backup plan to resume the matches of the lucrative T20 league later in May.
IPL 2025: Will South India Host?
the BCCI has identified Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad as potential venues to host the remaining 16 matches of IPL 2025 if the league resumes in May, following its suspension on Friday, May 9.
Although the BCCI confirmed the suspension of the league on Friday, there is no clear indication yet on a timeline for making a decision about the resumption of IPL 2025. officials from the 10 franchises were informally briefed about the challenges of resuming the IPL under the current political circumstances, with a strong possibility that the remainder of the season might be played later in the year.
Logistical Challenges
Despite optimism among the franchises, several hurdles could hinder the return of IPL 2025.
The most significant challenge would be the availability of players, particularly the foreign cricketers.
As soon as the BCCI announced the suspension of the league, many foreign players, if not all by now, began booking flights back to their home countries.
Reintegrating these foreign players could pose a challenge if IPL 2025 resumes later in May, especially if the league extends beyond its originally scheduled final date of May 25.
This is due to the resumption of international matches after the IPL 2025 window concludes, starting with the World Test Championship final.
The WTC final will be contested between South Africa and Australia at Lord’s on June 11, and most players from these two teams participate in the IPL.
IPL 2025: What’s Left?
When the BCCI announced the suspension of IPL 2025, Match 58 of 74, between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals, was abandoned during the 11th over of the first innings.
There has been no confirmation on whether the match will be rescheduled or considered a “No Result,” which would award both teams one point.
If the league resumes, 16 matches remain, including 12 league fixtures before the IPL 2025 proceeds to the playoffs and final.
Hyderabad was designated to host the original first qualifier and eliminator, while Kolkata was assigned to host the second qualifier and the final.
It remains unclear what the BCCI’s contingency plan for IPL 2025 might be, if one exists.