IPL 2025 | "Everyone felt we should stand united as a nation": Chairman Arun Dhumal

Spectators leave after the IPL match between PBKS and DC was abandoned in Dharamsala on Thursday. PIC/AFP

Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Arun Dhumal admitted that it was a tough decision to suspend IPL-18 matches with immediate effect for a week given the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, but at the same time, he is optimistic that the highly popular franchise league will resume soon.

"Most definitely, it [suspension call] was not an easy decision, but the situation demands that we stand united with our forces and our nation," Dhumal told mid-day over the phone from Dharamsala on Friday, a day after the Punjab Kings versus Delhi Capitals fixture was cut short.

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Arun Dhumal

During the 11th over of match number 58 of IPL-18, the floodlights at the Dharamsala Stadium were switched off on Thursday night in the middle of the Punjab innings. Initially, it was said that the lights were faulty, but later it was learnt that the blackout was deliberate due to security concerns. Then, on Friday, the BCCI announced that the IPL would be suspended for a week.

16 games remaining

With still 16 games to play, Dhumal is hopeful that the situation will improve. "We are very optimistic that the situation will become better in the coming few days. And as soon as it gets better, we will review things and accordingly take a call," added Dhumal, who was at the Dharamsala venue on Thursday, and was seen signalling spectators to evacuate the stadium due to security concerns.

"It [suspension] was a unanimous decision by all the stakeholders, be it our franchise owners, players, broadcasters, everyone. They all agreed that it's inappropriate to continue the tournament given the current situation. Everyone felt we should stand united as a nation," said Dhumal, adding that he understood the predicament of the players.

‘Players will understand'

"Our cricketers are brave boys who have done their best while playing for the country. I'm sure they understand the situation and also want to stand in support of the government and our armed forces. We must ensure our country comes out a winner."

There can be no compromise when it comes to security, Dhumal insisted. "The security of every person involved with the IPL is of utmost importance. Keeping this in mind, we decided that it's in everyone's best interest to postpone IPL for the time being, and take a call as and when the situation improves," concluded Dhumal.

Meanwhile, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said in a statement that the board expresses its solidarity with the government: "The BCCI stands firmly with the nation. We express our solidarity with the government, the armed forces and the people of our country. 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."