As the Indian Premier League 2025 gears up to resume on May 17 after a week-long suspension due to the cross-border unrest, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has called on the BCCI to scale down the usual glitz and glamour associated with the tournament. His appeal comes in light of the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 innocent lives and sparked a wave of violence between India and Pakistan.
Sunil Gavaskar, speaking to Sports Today, urged the cricketing fraternity to show restraint and sensitivity during the remainder of the season. “This is not the time for celebrations,” he said. “People have lost their loved ones. Let’s respect their grief. No dancing girls, no DJs blaring music in the middle of overs. Let the game be played in its purest form—just cricket.”
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The IPL had come to a sudden halt after the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals match in Dharamsala was abandoned midway due to rising security concerns. The escalating tension, involving drone incursions and cross-border shelling, left players and franchises on edge. However, with a ceasefire now in place, the BCCI has announced the revised schedule, confirming that the tournament will run until June 3.
The final venue is yet to be disclosed. The Mumbai Indians vs Sunrisers Hyderabad match was already played in a toned-down manner before the pause, with players donning black armbands and observing a minute’s silence. Gavaskar believes that should set the tone for the rest of the season.
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India’s military responded with Operation Sindoor, targeting terror launchpads across the border. Sadly, the conflict resulted in further casualties—12 civilians and one Indian soldier.
Cricket, Gavaskar feels, can still offer solace—but only if it acknowledges the gravity of the moment. The tournament resumes with Royal Challengers Bengaluru taking on Kolkata Knight Riders at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, on May 17.
