IPL suspended for a week, will it resume in UAE?

A day after the Indian Premier League (IPL) match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was abandoned following reports of drone attacks on Jammu, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to suspend the cash-rich tournament by a week.

The BCCI confirmed the development in a statement issued to the media.

"The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to suspend the remainder of the ongoing TATA IPL 2025 with immediate effect for one week. Further updates regarding the new schedule and venues of the tournament will be announced in due course after a comprehensive assessment of the situation in consultation with relevant authorities and stakeholders," said a statement from the Indian cricket board.

"The decision was taken by the IPL Governing Council after due consultation with all key stakeholders following the representations from most of the franchisees, who conveyed the concern and sentiments of their players, and also the views of the broadcaster, sponsors and fans; while the BCCI reposes full faith in the strength and preparedness of our armed forces, the Board considered it prudent to act in the collective interest of all stakeholders," the statement added.

"While cricket remains a national passion, there is nothing greater than the Nation and its sovereignty, integrity, and security of our country. The BCCI remains firmly committed to support all efforts that safeguard India and will always align its decisions in the best interest of the nation," it further added.

Some foreign players have expressed their unwillingness to continue playing the IPL, it has been learnt.

The tournament may resume in the United Arab Emirates after a week considering the volatile situation in the Indian subcontinent amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan.

There was speculation that Oman could also host the tournament but Oman Cricket have denied that the tournament will take place there. 

It should be noted that the Pakistan Super League, which was being held in Pakistan but was stopped eight games before completion following tensions, will be completed in the UAE as announced by the Pakistan Cricket Board.

Since Pakistan Cricket Board had already taken UAE as venue for the remaining IPL matches, it is likely that the BCCI will wait for the completion of PSL before shifting the matches there.

An official confirmation on this is, however, awaited. As many as 58 matches have taken place in IPL so far and there are 16 more matches, including three playoff games and the final yet to take place.

(The story has been updated)

Tags : Indian Premier League, Cricket, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, BCCI, Dharamsala, UAE, IPL