‘We Were Told to Go..’: Player Recalls Chaotic Scene After Blackout in Dharamsala IPL Match

May 9, 2025: The ongoing 18th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) was thrown into uncertainty last night after a blackout at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala, triggering a series of security-related events that led to panic among players and fans. The match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was called off in the 11th over, following growing concerns of aerial attacks from nearby Pathankot, a town located approximately 90 kilometers from Dharamsala.

The sudden blackout, initially attributed to a floodlight failure, coincided with reports of attacks in Pathankot, prompting immediate action. Players from both teams were quickly ordered to return to their hotels. In the confusion, Delhi Capitals players ended up in the Punjab Kings’ bus, and vice versa. “We were told about attacks in nearby Pathankot and were asked to go back to the hotel immediately. There was some panic,” one player revealed.

The atmosphere was tense as the picturesque hill town’s 23,000-capacity stadium, which was around 80% full at the time, was evacuated. IPL chairperson Arun Dhumal was seen urging the crowd to leave the venue while walking along the boundary line.

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With security in question and airports in the region shut down, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is working on a “Plan B” to ensure the safety of all involved. “We are trying to see if we can get the teams to Delhi by train. The BCCI is doing its best to ensure everyone is safe,” said BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla.

The board is also in discussions with international players, assuring them that if any wish to leave the country due to safety concerns, their travel would be facilitated.

Sources have confirmed that the decision to call off the match was made by the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) after receiving instructions from top cricket officials. The situation prompted immediate evacuations, with the BCCI monitoring developments closely.

As tensions escalate in the region following Operation Sindoor and cross-border issues between India and Pakistan, the BCCI is exploring all options. There is growing speculation that the IPL 2025 schedule could face revisions or even a pause, depending on how the security situation unfolds in the coming days.

Earlier in the day, the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur also received a bomb threat via email, further heightening security concerns in the country. In light of these incidents, the BCCI is likely to make a decision on the future of the IPL after consulting with the government and relevant authorities.

For now, IPL fans and stakeholders alike are left waiting as the board weighs the best course of action to ensure the safety of players, staff, and supporters during these uncertain times.