IPL chairman Arun Dhumal spoke extensively on the decision made to suspend the ongoing IPL 2025 for a week as tensions escalate between India and Pakistan on the borders. The decision to suspend the ongoing IPL 18 was taken on Friday, May 9, 2025.

This was also forced after the Match 58 of the tournament between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamshala was called-off midway as sirens for blackout echoed. This was due to nearby Pathankot being under attack by Pakistan drones.

The venue was evacuated by the crowd in safe manner and the players, officials and support staff also left the stadium without any damage.

Dhumal stated that it did not make sense to continue with the tournament, and a full suspension of the remainder of the season was being considered.

“See, given the situation as of now, we thought it appropriate that it does not make sense to have the tournament going on for a while, and as the situation unfolds in the coming days, accordingly will take a call. We were considering (full suspension) and we were discussing with all the stakeholders, and it was thought appropriate to suspend for a week, assess the situation and then take a final call,” Dhumal told CNN-News18.

The IPL chairman also added that the situation will be reviewed and a call will be taken about the future of the tournament.

“See as of now, as you know, the entire country is focused on winning this war, and we want to show our solidarity with our armed forces and with our government. So that is the focus as of now, we are not considering everything else as of now. So, we will review the situation and accordingly, take a call after discussing with all the stakeholders," he added.