New Delhi, May 11 – The Indian Premier League (IPL) is poised to resume action on May 16 or 17 following a week-long suspension triggered by the India-Pakistan military conflict. The final, originally scheduled in Kolkata, may now be shifted due to weather concerns.
Ceasefire Paves the Way for Restart
The ceasefire announced on Saturday has enabled the IPL Governing Council and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to start planning the league’s resumption. The IPL was put on hold on May 9 in the wake of escalating tensions between the two nations.BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla stated, “As of now there is no decision on IPL. BCCI officials are working out the solutions. The secretary and IPL chairman are in talks with franchises and stakeholders. Efforts are being made to resume the tournament early.”
Initial Match and Revised Schedule
According to an IPL source, the tournament is expected to restart with the match between Lucknow Super Giants and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Lucknow — the fixture originally set for May 9. Teams have been instructed to recall players in preparation for the restart.The finalised schedule is expected to be released by Monday. The remaining matches are likely to be confined to four venues, with Delhi and Dharamsala ruled out. Equipment has already been removed from these two cities.
Potential Change in Final’s Venue
Although Qualifier I and the Eliminator are still scheduled to be hosted in Hyderabad, the final, tentatively set for June 1 in Kolkata, may be relocated to Ahmedabad due to rain forecasts.Consultations Underway
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed ongoing discussions with franchises, broadcasters, sponsors, and state associations. “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 restart date,” Saikia said.Abandoned PBKS vs DC Game
A crucial game between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC) was abandoned midway in Dharamsala as tensions escalated. PBKS had reached 122 for 1 in 10.1 overs before the match was called off. Both teams are expected to be awarded a point each. Players were transported by bus to Jalandhar and then travelled to Delhi by train.Impact on Home Games and Playoffs
If the plan to use only four venues materialises, teams like Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, and Mumbai Indians will lose their remaining home games. The expected host cities for the final leg include Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Lucknow.Notably, CSK, RR, and SRH are already out of playoff contention, leaving seven teams in the race for four spots. As per the current standings:
- Gujarat Titans: 16 points (NRR 0.793)
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru: 16 points (NRR 0.482)
- Punjab Kings: 15 points
- Mumbai Indians: 14 points
- Delhi Capitals: 13 points
- Kolkata Knight Riders: 11 points
- Lucknow Super Giants: 10 points