IPL 2025: Mumbai Indians vs Punjab Kings Match Moved from Dharamsala to This Stadium Amid Operation Sindoor

May 8, 2025: The highly anticipated IPL 2025 fixture between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Mumbai Indians (MI), originally scheduled for Sunday, May 11 in Dharamsala, has been shifted to Ahmedabad due to heightened security concerns stemming from Operation Sindoor, a military operation launched by the Indian Armed Forces.

The move was confirmed by Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) secretary Anil Patel, who stated, “Yes, the match between Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians has been shifted to Ahmedabad.” The match will begin at the previously scheduled time of 3:30 PM IST.

Why the Venue Was Changed

The decision follows the Indian Armed Forces’ retaliatory strikes on terrorist locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, in response to a tragic terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 tourists. As a result, several northern airports — including Jammu, Dharamsala, Amritsar, and Chandigarh — were temporarily closed until May 10, with civilian air travel suspended.

Neutral Ground Advantage?

There were earlier discussions of shifting the match to Mumbai’s DY Patil or Brabourne Stadiums, but concerns about giving MI a home advantage led to the selection of Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, a neutral venue for both sides.

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Other Fixtures and Tribute Performance

Despite the concerns, Punjab Kings’ home game against Delhi Capitals on Thursday, May 8, will go ahead as planned at HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala. The match will feature a special tribute performance by singer B Praak, who will honor the Indian Armed Forces with a patriotic musical set.

Playoff Stakes

The PBKS vs MI clash remains crucial for both teams as they battle to secure playoff spots. Mumbai Indians, in particular, must win to stay in contention for a top-two finish, especially after a recent defeat to Gujarat Titans.