IPL 2025: BCCI Considers Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru For Restart Amid Indo-Pak Tensions

May 10, 2025: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is actively working on a contingency plan for the resumption of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, which was suspended earlier this week due to escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan.

According to a report, the BCCI is evaluating the possibility of resuming the tournament next week, potentially relocating the remaining matches to safer regions in the country. Cities in eastern and southern India—such as Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru—are being considered as alternative venues. However, if the situation at the border stabilizes, the BCCI may opt to proceed with the original match locations.

“A week is a long time when it comes to such matters. The board is chalking out a contingency plan,” a BCCI source told TOI. “If things de-escalate at the border, the board may also retain all the original venues.”

Also Read: PCB Halts Ongoing Domestic Cricket Events Amid Cross-Border Tensions

In case tensions continue or worsen, the BCCI is also exploring a longer postponement, possibly rescheduling the remainder of the tournament after India’s upcoming Test tour of England, which is scheduled from June to August 2025. The feasibility of this option would largely depend on security conditions and the availability of necessary law enforcement personnel for IPL matches.

The suspension of the IPL has also cast doubts over other major fixtures on the cricketing calendar, including the Asia Cup scheduled for September, where India is supposed to be the host nation. Rising geopolitical concerns and strained India-Pakistan relations could force the BCCI to seek government approval before extending an invitation to Pakistan or finalizing hosting duties.

“There are doubts over the tour of Bangladesh due to the persisting communal unrest in the country. BCCI will wait for the government’s nod before sending its teams to Bangladesh. Asia Cup is losing its relevance anyway,” the source added.

Another major consideration for the BCCI is the stance of foreign players, many of whom may be hesitant to stay in India amidst growing safety concerns.

As tensions continue to unfold, the BCCI’s next steps will be crucial in determining not just the fate of IPL 2025, but also several other international fixtures involving the Indian team.