IPL Match Canceled: Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings Return Amid Rising Tensions

IPL Fixture Canceled in Dharamshala

New Delhi [India], May 9: Players and staff from Delhi Capitals (DC) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) arrived at Safdarjung Railway Station in New Delhi late Friday after their IPL match in Dharamshala was abruptly canceled.

Notable figures such as KL Rahul, Marco Jansen, Tristan Stubbs, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Punjab Kings co-owner Preity Zinta were spotted leaving the station in the capital.

The much-anticipated clash at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium was halted midway through the first innings on Thursday night. Fans were promptly informed of the cancellation and asked to leave the venue, while both teams were escorted back to their accommodations.

Following the match's cancellation, a special Vande Bharat train was quickly arranged to transport players, support staff, commentators, and crew back to New Delhi. The IPL expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Railways via X, stating, “Thank you, @RailMinIndia, for organizing a special Vande Bharat train on such short notice to ferry everyone to New Delhi. We greatly appreciate your prompt action.”

In a video shared by the IPL, Delhi Capitals spinner Kuldeep Yadav expressed his thanks to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and Indian Railways, saying, “I want to thank the BCCI and the Indian Railways.”

On Friday afternoon, the BCCI announced a one-week suspension of the ongoing IPL 2025 due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.

The Indian Board confirmed that updates regarding the tournament's new schedule and venues will be provided after a thorough evaluation of the situation in consultation with relevant authorities.

“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 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,” stated BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia.

“While cricket remains a national passion, there is nothing greater than the Nation and its sovereignty, integrity, and security of our country. The BCCI remains firmly committed to supporting all efforts that safeguard India and will always align its decisions in the best interest of the nation,” he added.