In a significant shift caused by national security concerns, the IPL 2025 fixture between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Mumbai Indians (MI), originally scheduled for May 11 in Dharamsala, has been moved to Mumbai. This decision follows Operation Sindoor—India’s coordinated military response to terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, including strikes on known hubs like Bahawalpur and Muridke.
While the game will now take place in Mumbai, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has clarified that the contest will not be held at the Wankhede Stadium, MI’s traditional home ground. The specific venue within Mumbai is yet to be confirmed.
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The relocation stems from security concerns, with Dharamsala being just 60 km from the India-Pakistan border. In light of recent tensions, the prospect of hosting over 20,000 fans under floodlights raised red flags for both the BCCI and state authorities. The Indian armed forces’ surgical strikes on nine terror camps earlier this week, targeting groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba, have led to heightened alertness across border regions.
#IPL2025 | With #Dharamsala airport shut post #OperationSindoor, IPL team travel plans hit turbulence. #PunjabKings stay put, but questions loom over upcoming matches vs DC and MI.#ShreyasIyer #PBKS
Read more: https://t.co/sSxC9f2TI6 pic.twitter.com/kCJ6UKUS32
— The Federal (@TheFederal_News) May 7, 2025
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu convened a high-level emergency meeting in Shimla following the strikes. He affirmed full support for the Indian Army’s decisive action and stressed that the people of Himachal stand united with the nation. He confirmed that all district officials, especially in border zones, have been placed on high alert.
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Sukhu added that public gatherings were being discouraged as a precautionary measure. “We’ve cancelled all public meetings, and directions have been issued to increase surveillance against any potential enemy activity, including social media propaganda,” he said.
The BCCI is also consulting with the central government regarding the status of PBKS’s next match against Delhi Capitals on May 8. Further updates are expected soon.
