The fate of IPL 2025 now rests on a critical decision from the Government of India. With the tournament suspended midway through the season, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has set the wheels in motion to resume the league, but not before undertaking comprehensive discussions with stakeholders and obtaining the green light from central authorities. In the next 48 hours, the board will engage key parties in a bid to finalize a suitable timeline and ensure a seamless return for the remaining fixtures.
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Government Approval Becomes Key to IPL’s Return
The BCCI halted the IPL 2025 season on May 9 following the forced cancellation of a match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala. The suspension, originally slated for seven days, has entered its second day, with the board now weighing its next steps amid a tense geopolitical backdrop.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia emphasized the importance of seeking direction from New Delhi before finalizing any schedule: “The BCCI suspended the IPL yesterday for a period of seven days, and, today, we are on the second day with five more days left. The BCCI is closely monitoring the evolving situation and developments, and will take a call on IPL resumption after consulting all stakeholders of IPL and the concerned Government authorities.“
Stakeholder Meetings Set to Define Next Phase
As part of its strategy, the BCCI will engage in dialogue with franchises, broadcasters, sponsors, and state associations over the next two days. The board aims to gather inputs, assess logistical feasibility, and explore available windows to complete the 16 pending matches, including four high-stakes playoffs.
“In the next 48 hours, we will begin consultations with the franchises, broadcasters, sponsors and the state associations slated to host the remaining matches before crystallizing a decision on the league’s resumption,” said Saikia.
Though BCCI is targeting a 12-14 day window within May, it remains open to flexible scheduling, including additional double-headers, if required. The priority remains concluding the competition without extending beyond the current month.
Central Clearance Non-Negotiable
In an acknowledgment of IPL’s national significance, BCCI has made it clear that the Government of India’s nod will be central to any decision-making process.
“Given the importance of IPL at this juncture, it will also be prudent and necessary to take the nod of the Government of India before finalising the time for its restart. BCCI will duly announce the date of IPL restart once the whole process is over in due course of time,” Saikia added.
The evolving scenario and its sensitivity have made governmental approval more than just a formality—it is a prerequisite for any movement.
Franchises Wait and Watch Amid Uncertainty
While the BCCI maintains internal timelines, team managements are taking a cautious approach. Most franchises are holding off from contacting their overseas players until greater clarity emerges regarding the revised schedule.
Franchise representatives told Cricbuzz they are in a holding pattern but remain ready to recall their international players if the situation permits a swift resumption. Interestingly, several foreign players have not yet left India, and their teams may advise them to remain on standby.
CSK Voices Support for Completion Despite Playoff Exit
Despite languishing at the bottom of the points table, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have thrown their support behind finishing the tournament. The franchise, with just two matches left, views IPL’s completion as essential to maintaining the league’s reputation.
“Although we are not in contention for a play-off berth, we want the league to be completed. The IPL is a prestigious league and we want it to cooperate with the BCCI on the matter. We have only two more games left and we have advised the overseas players that they may have to return in a week’s time,” said CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan.
With May slipping away, time is fast becoming a luxury the BCCI cannot afford. Completing the remaining fixtures within a tight window poses a significant logistical challenge, especially with players scattered across borders and broadcasters already planning for alternative programming.
Still, hope remains high within cricketing circles. If government officials offer the necessary approvals and stakeholders align, fans may soon witness the resumption of one of the world’s most popular sporting spectacles.
FAQs
When will IPL 2025 resume?
The BCCI will decide the IPL 2025 restart date after consulting the Indian government and stakeholders within the next 48 hours.
Why did BCCI suspend IPL 2025?
The BCCI suspended IPL 2025 after abandoning the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals match in Dharamsala due to external circumstances.
How many matches are left in IPL 2025?
Sixteen matches, including four playoff games, remain in the IPL 2025 season.
Will overseas players return for the remaining IPL 2025 matches?
Most overseas players are willing to return if IPL resumes within a week, while some have stayed back on standby.
Is government approval necessary for IPL 2025 to restart?
Yes, the BCCI will only restart IPL 2025 after receiving official clearance from the Government of India.
