The Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL 2025), abruptly suspended on May 9 due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, is on the verge of a restart following a ceasefire announcement on Saturday.
IPL chairman Arun Dhumal has confirmed that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is actively exploring options to resume the tournament with a revised schedule and limited venues to conclude the remaining 12 league matches and four playoff games.
The decision hinges on consultations with the government and stakeholders, as the BCCI reportedly aims to wrap up the IPL 2025 by May 30, extending the original final date of May 25.
Also read: IPL 2025 to Resume with Revised Schedule, Final Likely on May 30 - Report
"IPL 2025 to Resume After Government's Consultation", Says Arun Dhumal
The BCCI, prioritising safety, suspended the tournament for one week, with many overseas players returning home amid the uncertainty. However, the ceasefire has sparked renewed hope, with the BCCI aiming to reorganize the league. Chennai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad have been shortlisted as primary venues.
"Ceasefire has just been announced. We now explore the possibility of resuming and concluding the IPL. If it is possible to conduct it immediately… We need to work out the venue dates and everything, and we would now be speaking to all the stakeholders, including team owners, broadcasters, and everyone involved and find a way as to how to move forward. Most importantly, we will have to consult with the government," Dhumal said as quoted to The Indian Express.
IPL 2025 Likely to Resume on May 16
The BCCI has already instructed franchises to prepare for a restart, with teams, except for Punjab Kings, directed to ensure players report to their respective destinations by Tuesday so that the tournament can resume by May 16. Final is now likely to be played on May 30 instead of May 25.
"As the IPL was suspended for a week, there is a possibility of the IPL final now being played on May 30 instead of May 25 with limited venues. The schedule will be sent to all IPL teams by tonight," a BCCI source said as quoted to The Indian Express.
The board is also addressing concerns about overseas players, many of whom departed during the suspension. The revised schedule, expected to be finalised by Sunday night, will rely heavily on double-headers to fit the remaining 16 fixtures.
Also read: CSK Call Overseas Players Back for IPL 2025 Following India-Pakistan Ceasefire Agreement
