IPL 2025 Restart: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken a significant step toward resuming the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, which was suspended due to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. According to recent reports, the BCCI has shortlisted three southern Indian cities—Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad—to host the remaining 16 matches of the season, including the playoffs, if government approval is granted. This decision could mean that Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens, originally slated to host the IPL 2025 final, might not see the grand finale this year.
Why the IPL 2025 Was Suspended ?
The IPL 2025 season came to an abrupt halt on May 9, 2025, after the 58th match between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC) was abandoned mid-game due to security concerns. The suspension was prompted by escalating cross-border tensions, which led to air raid alerts in areas near the match venue in Dharamsala. The BCCI announced a one-week suspension, with a promise to release a revised schedule and venue details after consultations with relevant authorities (IPL 2025 Restart).
With 57 matches completed and 12 league games plus four playoff matches remaining, the BCCI is under pressure to ensure the tournament concludes smoothly. However, the board has not yet confirmed a cut-off date for resuming the tournament in May, leaving open the possibility of a later resumption if conditions do not stabilize.
New Venues for IPL 2025: Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad
The BCCI’s decision to select Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad as potential venues reflects a strategic move to host the remaining matches in southern India, possibly due to logistical or security considerations. These cities are home to some of the IPL’s most iconic stadiums:
- M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru: Known for its high-scoring games and electric atmosphere, this venue could host key playoff matches.
- M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai: The home of Chennai Super Kings, Chepauk is renowned for its passionate crowd and balanced pitch.
- Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad: Originally scheduled to host Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator, Hyderabad may now take on additional matches.
If this plan moves forward, Eden Gardens, which was set to host Qualifier 2 and the IPL 2025 final on May 25, could lose its marquee matches (IPL 2025 Restart). The shift would be a significant departure from the original schedule, which had positioned Kolkata as the centerpiece of the playoff phase.
Challenges in Resuming IPL 2025
Resuming the IPL in May presents several challenges, particularly with overseas players. Many international cricketers have begun leaving India due to the ongoing tensions, and convincing them to return could be difficult. Franchise officials remain cautiously optimistic but acknowledge that the tournament might need to be postponed to later in 2025 if government clearance is delayed.
Additionally, the abandoned PBKS vs. DC match raises questions about whether it will be replayed or if the points will be adjusted. The BCCI has yet to clarify this, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the tournament’s resumption.
What This Means for Fans and Franchises
For fans, the potential exclusion of Eden Gardens from hosting the final is disappointing. The 66,000-capacity stadium, home to Kolkata Knight Riders, is one of India’s most historic cricket venues, known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich legacy. However, the BCCI’s priority remains the safety of players, staff, and spectators, which may necessitate these changes.
Franchises, meanwhile, are adapting to the evolving situation. The BCCI informally communicated the new venue plans to team officials on May 9, and further updates are expected soon. Teams like Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Chennai Super Kings, and Sunrisers Hyderabad could benefit from playing in their home cities, while others may need to adjust to neutral venues (IPL 2025 Restart).
Looking Ahead: IPL 2025’s Uncertain Future
As the BCCI awaits government approval, the fate of IPL 2025 hangs in the balance. The board’s proactive approach in identifying alternative venues demonstrates its commitment to completing the season, but external factors will play a significant role. If the tournament resumes in May, it will likely be a condensed affair, with matches packed into a tight schedule to avoid clashing with the World Test Championship final in June.
For now, cricket fans can only wait for official confirmation from the BCCI. Stay tuned for updates on the IPL 2025 schedule, venues, and more as the situation develops.
