New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to cancel the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) tournament in light of the growing tensions with Pakistan. This decision was made after a high-level meeting convened by the BCCI, attended by top cricket officials and government representatives.
In the aftermath of the meeting, the BCCI confirmed that all foreign players participating in the tournament would be safely returned to their respective countries. Additionally, players, technical staff, crew members, and other associated personnel will be transported by special trains from the locations where the matches were being held.
The move comes after the abrupt suspension of an IPL match in Dharamsala on Wednesday, when floodlights were turned off, and spectators were evacuated due to security concerns. The match was halted after just 10.1 overs following a cross-border airstrike by Pakistan at approximately 9:35 pm. The strike caused widespread disruption, including a blackout in Jammu, Punjab, and Rajasthan.
The missile attacks on Thursday prompted BCCI officials to urgently call for an emergency meeting to assess the safety of the players and the future of the tournament. With regional airports now closed, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla stated that the board is implementing “Plan B” to ensure the safety of all personnel. “We are working to bring the teams to Delhi by train. The BCCI is doing everything possible to ensure everyone’s safety,” Shukla said.
Franchise teams have also been in communication with foreign players, informing them of the situation and offering assistance for those wishing to return home. The BCCI will be coordinating with international cricket boards to keep them updated on the security situation and to ensure the well-being of all foreign players.
