May 27, 2025: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced that the closing ceremony of IPL 2025 will be dedicated to the Indian Armed Forces in a heartfelt tribute to the valiant efforts of soldiers involved in Operation Sindoor, the military response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir.
The attack, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians, prompted swift and strategic action by the Indian Army, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). In honour of the armed forces’ bravery and sacrifice, the BCCI will host a commemorative event at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on June 3, ahead of the IPL 2025 final.
“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,” said BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, speaking to Sportstar. “As a tribute, we have decided to dedicate the closing ceremony to the armed forces.”
National Tribute
The BCCI has formally invited key defence personnel, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Navy Staff, and Chief of Air Staff, to attend the closing ceremony. The event will also include performances by military bands, symbolizing the fusion of national pride with India’s favourite sporting festival.
“While cricket remains a national passion, there is nothing greater than the nation and its sovereignty, integrity, and security,” Saikia added.
Resumption Post Ceasefire
The IPL 2025 season had faced a temporary suspension amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan. However, following a mutual ceasefire, the tournament resumed with a revised schedule. The final, originally set for May 26, has now been postponed to June 3 to accommodate the changes.
Since resuming, the BCCI has been honouring the armed forces at every match — the national anthem is sung before games, and giant screens flash the message: “Thank You, Armed Forces.”
Final Four Locked In
The four teams that have made it to the playoffs are:
- Punjab Kings
- Gujarat Titans
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru
- Mumbai Indians
The playoffs begin on May 29, culminating in the grand finale on June 3, a day that now stands as both a celebration of cricket and a salute to national heroes.