The Indian Premier League (IPL) faced an unexpected interruption on Thursday in Dharamsala due to air raid alerts in neighboring cities. This alarming situation forced league administrators to pause and assess the escalating military confrontation between India and Pakistan, raising concerns about the future of the current IPL season. The match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was abruptly canceled after air raid alerts were issued in Jammu and Pathankot, putting the entire league at risk of a complete suspension.
IPL chairman Arun Dhumal addressed the media, stating, "We are reviewing the situation right now. It is an evolving situation. We haven't received any directive from the government." He emphasized that any decisions regarding the league's continuation will take into account logistical considerations. The conflict escalated following a terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which heightened tensions in the region.
At the time of the cancellation, Punjab Kings were in a strong position, scoring 122 runs for 1 wicket in just 10.1 overs. The match faced delays due to rain, and shortly after play resumed, the floodlights failed, plunging the stadium into darkness. Ultimately, for the safety of players and fans, both teams were evacuated from the stadium.
The picturesque Dharamsala stadium, which can accommodate approximately 23,000 spectators, was nearly at full capacity when the evacuation occurred. A source from the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association reported, "Players of both teams are safely back in the hotel from the stadium. There is no blackout here at the moment. The hotel is under heavy security, and we are waiting for the BCCI's decision." As fans exited, many voiced anti-Pakistan slogans, reflecting the tense atmosphere surrounding the event.
During the short-lived match, Prabhsimran Singh had scored 50 runs off 28 balls, while his opening partner, Priyansh Arya, contributed 70 runs off 34 balls before the game was halted. Following the evacuation, both teams will be transported to Delhi via a special train from Pathankot, located approximately 85 kilometers from Dharamsala. The teams will first travel by road to Pathankot.
Due to the ongoing tensions, Dharamsala's lone airport, along with those in neighboring Kangra and Chandigarh, has suspended operations as a precaution against potential Pakistani attacks. The cancellation of the match raises uncertainty about the continuation of the IPL season. However, Dhumal confirmed that Friday's match between Lucknow Super Giants and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Lucknow is not under immediate threat, stating, "Yes, it is on as of now, but obviously, it is an evolving situation."
Reliable sources within the IPL have indicated that several foreign players are eager to return home amid these developments. Following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, India conducted missile strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, further escalating the situation.
The IPL schedule has already been affected by these events, with the May 11 game between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings being relocated to Ahmedabad. As tensions continue to rise, the future of the IPL season hangs in the balance, with fans and stakeholders closely monitoring the situation.
