WATCH: PBKS, DC players enjoy special Vande Bharat train ride to Delhi after IPL 2025 suspension

Ankit Kumar — Fri, 09 May 2025 22:26:29 +0530

New Delhi: A day after the IPL 2025 match between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC) was abruptly called off in Dharamsala, players and staff from both franchises safely reached Delhi's Safdarjung Railway Station today, following a carefully coordinated evacuation effort.

The match, scheduled for May 8 at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, was abandoned during the first innings PBKS were cruising at 122 for 1 in 10.1 overs after emergency alerts and air raid warnings were issued in the surrounding regions, including Jammu and Pathankot, due to rising tensions along the India-Pakistan border.

While the sporting implications were significant PBKS missed a key opportunity to secure their playoff spot, and DC now face added pressure to stay in the race it was the security concern that took precedence. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) swiftly moved to safeguard all involved.

In a well-coordinated effort, the players and staff were first moved by road from Dharamsala to Jalandhar, before boarding a special Vande Bharat Express train bound for Delhi. The train journey, completed earlier today, brought the players to Safdarjung Railway Station, marking the conclusion of a tense yet safely executed relocation.

The Ministry of Railways was lauded for responding promptly and efficiently. The IPL's official social media handle shared a video expressing gratitude to the Railways for organizing the train on such short notice, helping ferry not just players, but also support staff, commentators, production crew, and operations personnel.

Thank you, @RailMinIndia, for arranging a special Vande Bharat train on such short notice to ferry the players, support staff, commentators, production crew members, and operations staff to New Delhi.

We deeply appreciate your swift response. 🙌🏽@AshwiniVaishnaw | @JayShah | pic.twitter.com/tUwzc5nGWD

IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 9, 2025

Despite the intense circumstances, videos from the train showed moments of relaxation and unity among PBKS and DC players as they shared meals and lighthearted conversations choosing camaraderie over chaos.

With Delhi now serving as a temporary safe zone, both teams will refocus on the remainder of the tournament under heightened security and public attention. While May 8 was about cricket, May 9 was all about the journey a reminder that sometimes, safety takes precedence over sport.

'It was scary....': IPL cheerleader narrates tale after Dharamsala blackout…

Ankit Kumar — Fri, 09 May 2025 20:44:36 +0530

New Delhi: A female cheerleader described a frightening incident during a disrupted Indian Premier League match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamshala on Thursday. The game was halted prematurely at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium.

A power outage, attributed to air raid alerts in nearby Jammu and Pathankot stemming from the India-Pakistan conflict, halted a Punjab Kings cricket match in the 10.1st over, with the team at 122/1. Initially believed to be a simple power failure, the outage was later linked to the military conflict.

Following a security alert, the IPL chairman, Arun Singh Dhumal, oversaw the complete and immediate evacuation of the Dharamshala stadium. A cheerleader documented the event on social media.

A cheerleader described a frightening stadium evacuation during a game, fueled by panicked shouts of "bombs." The experience left her deeply shaken and wanting to leave Dharamsala, expressing hope for support from IPL organizers. She reported feeling shocked and overwhelmed by the event.

BCCI arranges special train to transport players

Due to challenging conditions and logistical difficulties in Himachal Pradesh, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) organized a Vande Bharat Express train to move Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings players, along with the broadcast team, from Dharamshala to Delhi.

"Very very scary" - Cheer leader's SHOCKING video from Punjab Kings Vs Delhi Capitals IPL match in Dharamshala. pic.twitter.com/S830aDKer3

Manobala Vijayabalan (@ManobalaV)

?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2025

Approximately 300 individuals, comprising players, support staff, and broadcasting personnel, will travel by high-speed rail, according to a source within the BCCI. This method is intended to provide efficient and secure transportation.

In middle of India-Pakistan war, DDCA get MASSIVE threat against Arun Jaitley Stadium

Ankit Kumar — Fri, 09 May 2025 18:21:42 +0530

New Delhi: Due to the India-Pakistan conflict, the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 was suspended by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) due to safety concerns for players. Separately, the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) received an anonymous bomb threat targeting the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium on May 9th.

The Arun Jaitley Stadium in the national capital region, home to the Delhi Capitals IPL franchise, was slated to host their next home match against the Gujarat Titans on May 11th, despite the tournament's temporary suspension.

A Delhi official confirmed to the Times of India that a threat email was received this morning. The email has been passed on to Delhi Police, who have already conducted a site inspection.

A report indicates that an email described the potential activation of Pakistani sleeper cells within India, in response to India's strong reaction to the Pahalgam terror attack in April.

In response to a major terrorist attack in India, resulting in 26 deaths, the Indian Armed Forces conducted "Operation Sindoor." This operation involved targeted strikes on nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, reportedly disabling several terrorist training camps and launch sites early Wednesday morning, May 7th.

IPL remains suspended

Following a series of drone and missile attacks on Indian cities launched by Pakistan on May 8th, the India-Pakistan cricket match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala was halted due to an air raid alert.

With the majority of IPL 2025 matches completed, leaving only 16 games unplayed, the IPL and BCCI announced that a revised schedule will be released following consultations with relevant parties.

Before publicly announcing the postponement of IPL matches, the league informed all ten teams and their players, according to ESPNcricinfo. The IPL Governing Council made this decision after consulting with stakeholders, including franchisees (who relayed player concerns), broadcasters, sponsors, and fans. While the BCCI trusts the armed forces, the Board prioritized the collective interests of all involved parties.

IPL 2025 resumption: Why scrapping of Asia Cup 2025 is best bet for BCCI

Devadyuti Das | PTI — Fri, 09 May 2025 17:56:12 +0530

The currently suspended Indian Premier League's 16 remaining games can be completed during a 10 to 12 days window in September as the Asia Cup 2025 is now uncertain due to the rising armed hostilities between India and Pakistan.

It would be a miracle if Asia Cup 2025, which is supposed to be hosted by India (at a supposedly neutral venue), goes ahead given the raging conflict which was triggered by the killing of 26 people in a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam. The nearly non-existent sporting ties are unlikely to resume at any level till tensions ease.

The Asia Cup 2025 was given a 19-day window in September where at least two India vs Pakistan matches were to take place apart from the possibility of a final clash between the bitter rivals which would have assured the broadcasters of high advertising revenue.

"It is extremely bad optics if cricket continues when there is a possibility of war with a rogue nation (Pakistan). Sports can continue when everything is normal. Plus it is very natural for foreign players and coaches to be wary and wanting to return home," a senior BCCI official told PTI on condition of anonymity after the league was suspended indefinitely on Friday.

Incidentally, the Asian Cricket Council is now headed by Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi and the onus will be on him to deal with financial losses that the Asia Cup cancellation would cause.

It is understood that the BCCI top brass decision to suspend the league was well thought out call as only a handful of matches are left which can be completed in a 10-day window with possible double-headers.

The IPL has a dedicated window from March end to May end during which no international cricket is scheduled allowing the best of world cricket to ply their trade in the league. Now that the schedule has gone haywire, the BCCI will have to explore the available options.

The Indian team will be touring England from first week of June to first week of August and that schedule cannot be changed. The only period that looks good right now is between the second and fourth week of September where the BCCI can also negotiate with the various cricket boards to allow their players (except for freelancers who don't need permission) to come back and complete the assignment.

Why not August?

In August, India have a six-match white ball away series against Bangladesh which could have been stalled for IPL. However, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB)'s 'The Hundred' will be played between August 5 to 31 where most of the top T20 players, who also play in IPL, will be taking part.

Most IPL franchise owners like Reliance and RPSG group have bought stakes in 'The Hundred'. Also Australia will be hosting South Africa for a six-match white ball series through the month of August so players from both countries won't be available.

Why September is best option

From August 15 till September 22, the Caribbean Premier League will also be held where some of the top West Indies players are going to take part. But during the second week of September, a fair number of West Indies players can be made available for their respective IPL teams.

England and South Africa have a six-match white-ball series from September 2 to 14. Given the cordial relationship that BCCI shares with both the ECB and Cricket South Africa, it can request them to allow the players important to their IPL teams to be released during the window. After All SA20 is also a league that runs on investment from IPL franchises.

By end of September, India's WTC (World Test Championship) commitments against the West Indies and South Africa will commence followed by a white-ball tour of Australia in October-November. The IPL 2025 could also have been played in December but top Australian players like Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc, whose franchises are in play-off contention, will be busy with the Ashes along with some English players.

IPL chairman reveals plan for IPL 2025 season after suspension due to India-Pakistan war, says 'next decision will be…'

Devadyuti Das | ANI — Fri, 09 May 2025 17:38:19 +0530

Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Arun Dhumal said the 18th edition of the T20 league has been suspended for a week, and the restarting of the event will be decided after assessing the situation. On Friday afternoon, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced its decision to suspend the remainder of the IPL 2025, with immediate effect, for one week due to the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.

Speaking on the suspension of IPL 2025, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal told ANI news agency, "The tournament has been suspended for a week. The next decision will be taken after assessing the situation."

TATA IPL 2025 suspended for one week.

More details here 👇👇 | #TATAIPL

IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 9, 2025

Further, the 46-year-old spoke about the clash between the Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals, which was played at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium in Dharamshala, was called off midway through the first innings. Spectators were informed of the cancellation and asked to vacate the premises, while both teams were escorted back to their hotel.

"As you know, the situation escalated yesterday... To ensure no panic in the crowd and the safety of the public, steps were taken and people were evacuated comfortably," Dhumal added.

According to a BCCI source, the Indian board arranged a special Vande Bharat train to transport players from Delhi Capitals (DC), Punjab Kings (PBKS), and the entire broadcast crew from Dharamshala to Delhi.

A cloud of uncertainty had loomed over the future of the ongoing edition since the cancellation of Thursday's match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala midway following air raid alerts in neighbouring cities of Jammu and Pathankot.

"The BCCI has decided to suspend the remainder of the ongoing IPL with immediate effect for one week," BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia stated in a press release, after early information from the Board suggested that the suspension was indefinite.

"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," it added

The high-profile league was to wind up on May 25 in Kolkata as per the original schedule. The Board would look to conduct the remaining 16 matches (12 league and four knockouts) at an opportune time and there is speculation that the month of September could be an option if the scheduled Asia Cup is scrapped.

"At this critical juncture, the BCCI stands firmly with the nation. We express our solidarity with the Government of India, the Armed Forces and the people of our country," the Board statement read.

"The Board salutes the bravery, courage, and selfless service of our armed forces, whose heroic efforts under Operation Sindoor continue to protect and inspire the nation, as they lead a resolute response to the recent terrorist attack and the unwarranted aggression by Pakistan's armed forces," it added.

The BCCI said that while cricket remains a national passion, it is not greater than the sovereignty, integrity, and security of the 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 stated.

The Board also thanked stakeholders like the official broadcaster, the title sponsor and all associate partners for 'putting national interest above all other considerations'.

IPL 2025: Overseas cricketers want to go back ASAP, PBKS and DC players kept...

Ankit Kumar — Fri, 09 May 2025 16:06:20 +0530

New Delhi: Following increased India-Pakistan border tensions, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly adopting a cautious approach to the continuation of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Several international players involved in the tournament have expressed safety concerns and requested repatriation.

News agency PTI reports that foreign players participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) are reportedly seeking to leave India immediately. This follows the abandonment of a Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals match in Dharamsala due to air raid alerts in nearby areas.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) currently involves a large number of international cricketers, support staff, match officials, and broadcasters. The interrupted DC vs PBKS match, for example, featured eight overseas players on the field and many more within the two teams' broader rosters.

League officials temporarily suspended operations to assess the intensifying military conflict between India and Pakistan, a situation that could jeopardize the ongoing season.

IPL chairman Arun Dhumal stated that the league's future is under review, the situation is ongoing, and no government directives have been received. He indicated that any decision regarding the continuation of the IPL will consider logistical factors.

Play in Dharamsala was interrupted after 10.1 overs, with the home team at 122 for 1, due to a power outage attributed to floodlight failure. The match had already been delayed by earlier rain.

Due to safety concerns, both players and spectators were evacuated from the nearly full stadium, which has a capacity of roughly 23,000. Approximately 80% of the seats were occupied at the time of the evacuation.

IPL 2025 suspension buzz grows amid India-Pakistan tensions, chairman Arun Dhumal says...

deeksha sen | Akshat Jain — Fri, 09 May 2025 01:26:52 +0530

New Delhi: On Thursday, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal stated that a decision regarding the continuation of the 2025 Indian Premier League amid the ongoing military tensions between India and Pakistan will be made after assessing the circumstances.

The IPL 2025 clash between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals, held on Thursday evening at the stadium in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, was abruptly halted after the city experienced a blackout following drone and missile strikes launched by Pakistan targeting multiple Indian locations.

"We are reviewing the situation right now," news agency PTI quoted IPL chairman Arun Dhumal on whether the league will continue amid Indo-Pak military conflict.

Dhumal mentioned that the situation is still developing and noted that no official instructions have been issued by the government so far.

Pakistan: Pakistan's attacks prompt the suspension of an IPL match in Dharamshala, escalating regional tensions.

@Global Glimpse (@HimanshuSh80843)

?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2025

IPL is leading towards its suspension.
It is a (play)70-30(susp.) chance now.
English players have withdrawn from psl.
I think kolkata will not host playoffs and maybe no more matches in dharmashala.

Kun M (@Gayatri69108672)

?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2025

India-Pakistan tensions:

On Thursday evening, tensions between India and Pakistan intensified after a drone and missile assault launched by Pakistan aimed at areas in Jammu, Punjab, and Rajasthan. The Ministry of Defence later confirmed that the attack originated from Pakistan, but it was intercepted by India's air defense systems. The incident caused blackouts, air raid warnings across multiple cities, and led to the suspension of the ongoing IPL match in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.

The situation unfolded with Indian defense systems intercepting a suspected drone and missile intrusion over Jammu. Following this, reports surfaced of explosions in several areas of Punjab, sensitive regions in Rajasthan, and later at multiple locations along the western border, as per military sources quoted by PTI news agency.

This surge in tensions follows just a day after New Delhi initiated 'Operation Sindoor'. A precision military assault on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as a response to the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22.

Lucknow Super Giants vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru IPL 2025 LIVE Streaming Details: Timings, Telecast Date, when and where to watch LSG vs RCB Match No 59 in India online and on TV channel

Devadyuti Das — Fri, 09 May 2025 11:46:57 +0530

Royal Challengers Bengaluru can become the first team in this edition's IPL 2025 with a win over Lucknow Super Giants in match no. 59 at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow on Friday. The clash is being held in the shadow of heightened India-Pakistan border tension.

Punjab Kings could have also qualified for Playoffs on Thursday night, but their clash against Delhi Capitals was abandoned due to floodlight failure in Dharamsala. For now IPL 2025 edition is set to go ahead as scheduled but the BCCI and the IPL governing council are keeping a close eye on the military and security situation in the country.

RCB featuring Virat Kohli are currently in second place on the Points Table with 16 points from 11 matches level with Gujarat Titans. A win on Friday night will take them to 18 points and assure them of a berth in the Playoffs for sure.

Rishabh Pant's LSG, on the other hand, are struggling with just 10 points to their name but can still somehow reach the Playoff if they win their remaining three matches and other results go their way. However, the home team, have lost three matches in row in fact only won one out of the last five matches.

RCB may miss the services of Josh Hazlewood and Phil Salt, although the latter training with the team in Lucknow on Thursday. RCB have also lost the services of Devdutt Padikkal and may replace him with either Manoj Bhandage or Mayank Agarwal.

Meanwhile, hosts LSG could bring back leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi looking at conditions in Lucknow in place of pace bowler Prince Yadav.

From the heart of Lucknow, for the heart of Lucknow 💙 pic.twitter.com/dKekp4EETv

Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL)

?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2025

Here are all the details about LSG vs RCB IPL 2025 match No. 59

When is LSG vs RCB IPL 2025 match No. 59 going to take place?

The LSG vs RCB IPL 2025 match No. 59 will take place on Friday, May 9.

Where is LSG vs RCB IPL 2025 match No. 59 going to take place?

The LSG vs RCB IPL 2025 match No. 59 will be held at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow.

What time will LSG vs RCB IPL 2025 match No. 59 start?

The LSG vs RCB IPL 2025 match No. 59 will begin at 730pm IST. The toss for the match will be held at 7pm.

Where can I watch LSG vs RCB IPL 2025 match No. 59 on TV in India?

The LSG vs RCB IPL 2025 match No. 59 will be available LIVE on TV on Star Sports network channels in India.

How can I watch livestreaming of LSG vs RCB IPL 2025 match No. 59 for FREE in India?

The LSG vs RCB IPL 2025 match No. 59 will be available for livestreaming for FREE on JioHotstar website and app.

LSG vs RCB IPL 2025 match No. 59 Predicted 12

Lucknow Super Giants: Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, Nicholas Pooran, Rishabh Pant (c & wk), David Miller, Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, Akash Singh, Avesh Khan, Mayank Yadav, Prince Yadav/Ravi Bishnoi, Digvesh Rathi

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Jacob Bethell/Phil Salt, Virat Kohli, Mayank Agarwal/Manoj Bhandage, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Lungi Ngidi/Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Suyash Sharma

BCCI deploys special train after PBKS vs DC IPL match halted midway over security concerns

Jeet Banerjee — Fri, 09 May 2025 06:22:45 +0530

New Delhi: Following the unexpected abandonment of their IPL 2025 match in Dharamshala, the BCCI arranged a dedicated train to ensure the safe return of the Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals teams and support staff to Delhi. This was an unusual measure taken by the cricket board.

A cricket match at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium was interrupted during the first innings. Security concerns stemming from escalating tensions and air raid warnings issued near the India-Pakistan border led officials to suspend play as a precaution.

Punjab Kings had a strong start to their innings, reaching 122/1 in 10.1 overs before play was interrupted. Prabhsimran Singh was unbeaten on 50 from 28 balls, while Priyansh Arya had previously scored a quick 70 from 34 balls before being dismissed by T. Natarajan.

Due to security concerns causing the suspension of commercial flights in the Dharamshala area, the BCCI arranged a secure chartered train to transport roughly 300 people, comprising players, support staff, and broadcast crews, from Pathankot to Delhi.

A special train will transport the Punjab and Delhi Indian Premier League teams from Pathankot to Delhi tomorrow, according to a Northern Railways spokesperson. The specific schedule and route are being kept confidential for security purposes.

The escalating border tensions and retaliatory actions have prompted an unusual response, highlighting the increasingly precarious security situation in the region. Defense forces are maintaining a heightened state of readiness.

The future of the 2025 IPL season is uncertain. The BCCI is currently consulting with team owners and security experts to determine if the tournament can proceed as planned. International players' safety concerns may affect the upcoming schedule.

IPL 2025: PBKS vs DC match abandoned after Dharamshala blackout as IPL's continuation in doubt

Akshat Jain — Fri, 09 May 2025 00:05:24 +0530

New Delhi: The IPL encounter between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was abandoned midway on Thursday after air raid warnings were issued in nearby regions, including Jammu and Pathankot, casting serious doubt over the continuation of the tournament amid escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan.

At the time of the stoppage, Punjab was cruising at 122 for 1 in 10.1 overs. Initially, the interruption was believed to be caused by a floodlight malfunction. The game had already seen a delayed start due to earlier rainfall before the entire hill city experienced a temporary blackout.

For safety reasons, both players and spectators were escorted out of the venue. The scenic stadium, which holds around 23,000 fans, was nearly 80 percent full when the evacuation took place.

"There was no panic from the spectators. They (spectators and players) were moved out of the stadium very carefully and safely," a Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association source told PTI.

As spectators exited the stadium, many were heard chanting slogans against Pakistan. At the time play was suspended, Prabhsimran Singh remained unbeaten on 50 from 28 balls, while his opening partner Priyansh Arya had earlier struck a brisk 70 off 34 deliveries before being dismissed by pacer T Natarajan.

Both teams, along with their support staff, are set to be transported to Delhi via a special train departing from Pathankot, which lies roughly 85 kilometers from Dharamsala. They will make the journey to Pathankot by road.

Currently, air operations have been suspended at Dharamsala's only airport as well as those in nearby Kangra and Chandigarh, as a safety precaution in response to possible Pakistani threats.

Following the abandonment of Thursday night's match, uncertainty now looms over the continuation of the Indian Premier League. It is understood that the BCCI is holding an emergency meeting to assess the situation, especially after growing security concerns expressed by overseas players.

According to sources, several foreign cricketers are reportedly eager to leave the country as soon as possible.

India's recent missile strikes on terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir came two weeks after the deadly Pahalgam attack on April 22 that claimed 26 lives.

On Thursday, blackouts were enforced across several regions, including Pathankot, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Mohali, and the Union Territory of Chandigarh, following air raid sirens and unconfirmed reports of loud blasts near Jammu.

The IPL calendar has already begun to shift due to the escalating situation. The May 11 fixture between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings, originally scheduled for Dharamsala, has now been relocated to Ahmedabad.

The match scheduled for Thursday between Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings in Rawalpindi was called off after Pakistan's military reported that Indian drones had been shot down over several cities in Pakistan.