BCCI takes the decision amid soaring Indo-Pak tensions
New Delhi: The Indian Premier League (IPL) was on Friday suspended because of the deepening military confrontation between India and Pakistan with the BCCI saying that national interest trumps other considerations at a time when the country is responding to a terror attack and unwarranted aggression from across the border.
A cloud of uncertainty had loomed over the future of the ongoing edition since the cancellation of Thursday’s match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala midway following air raid alerts in neighbouring cities of Jammu and Pathankot.
“The BCCI has decided to suspend the remainder of the ongoing IPL with immediate effect for one week,” BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia stated in a press release, after early information from the Board suggested that the suspension was indefinite.
“Further updates regarding the new schedule and venues of the tournament will be announced in due course after a comprehensive assessment of the situation in consultation with relevant authorities and stakeholders,” it added.
The high-profile league was to wind up on May 25 in Kolkata as per the original schedule. The Board would look to conduct the remaining 16 matches (12 league and four knockouts) at an opportune time and there is speculation that the month of September could be an option if the scheduled Asia Cup is scrapped.
“At this critical juncture, the BCCI stands firmly with the nation. We express our solidarity with the Government of India, the Armed Forces and the people of our country,” the Board statement read.
“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, as they lead a resolute response to the recent terrorist attack and the unwarranted aggression by Pakistan’s armed forces,” it added. The BCCI said that while cricket remains a national passion, it is not greater than the sovereignty, integrity, and security of the country.
“The BCCI remains firmly committed to support all efforts that safeguard India and will always align its decisions in the best interest of the nation,” it stated.
The Board also thanked stakeholders like the official broadcaster, the title sponsor and all associate partners for “putting national interest above all other considerations.”
The military confrontation had caused significant anxiety among the foreign players, according to league sources and they will be flying back over the next few days. Sixty two overseas players were signed up by the 10 franchises at the mega-auction last year.
