IPL 2025 Suspended for a Week Amid Border Tensions: Broadcaster JioStar Backs BCCI’s Call
In a rare and solemn move, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has suspended the TATA IPL 2025 for one week due to escalating tensions along the India-Pakistan border. Official broadcaster JioStar has publicly expressed its full support for the decision, reaffirming that national security must take precedence over entertainment.
In a statement released Friday, JioStar emphasized its solidarity with the nation during this tense period.
“We fully endorse the BCCI’s decision to pause the tournament. At moments like these, unity is paramount. We stand by our armed forces, our government, and civilians impacted by recent events,” the broadcaster noted.
They further added that they are actively collaborating with the BCCI and all relevant parties to ensure a safe and smooth resumption of the league when the situation stabilizes.
The suspension follows a dramatic escalation in cross-border hostilities late Thursday, which led to power outages in key northern regions like Jammu, Udhampur, and Pathankot, and reports of aerial incursions. The unrest had an immediate impact on the match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala. The game was called off after just 10.1 overs in the first innings due to growing security concerns.
With air traffic halted in Dharamshala and nearby cities, a swift evacuation was carried out. Players, coaches, match officials, broadcasters, and support crews from both franchises were transported by bus to Jalandhar early Friday. A special train organized by the IPL is now bringing them safely to New Delhi.
So far, 58 matches have been played in IPL 2025, with 12 remaining in the league stage before the playoffs. The BCCI has notified all ten franchises about the temporary suspension, with further instructions expected following an advisory from the Ministry of External Affairs.
The incident underscores the unpredictable intersection of sport and geopolitics — a stark reminder that even the world’s biggest cricket league must take a backseat when national security is at stake.
