The IPL 2025 match between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC), scheduled to take place in Dharamshala on Thursday, May 8, was abandoned midway due to escalating cross-border attacks from Pakistan on multiple Indian regions.
The match, which had reached 10.1 overs with PBKS scoring 122 for 1, was suddenly halted after a floodlight tower shut down, initially suspected as a technical failure. However, the situation quickly intensified as two more towers were turned off, and spectators were urgently evacuated from the stadium.
Shortly after, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle that the match had been officially called off due to security concerns.
🚨 BCCI Reacts: “Player Safety is Top Priority”
Speaking to India Today, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said:
“The situation is not stable at the moment, and that is why we have cancelled today’s match — not just in Dharamshala, but also due to escalating tensions from the neighbouring country.
The safety of players, spectators, and support staff is our top priority.”
The BCCI has arranged a special train to move players and match officials from Una (nearest railway station) to Delhi as a precautionary measure.
⚠️ National Security Alert: Attacks Across Jammu & Punjab
The decision followed a series of attacks from Pakistan, including:
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Rocket attacks on Jammu, including a direct hit on Jammu airport.
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India’s air defence systems intercepted multiple rockets.
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An F-16 fighter jet from Pakistan was shot down by Indian forces.
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Drone attacks were foiled in Udhampur, Jaisalmer, and Akhnoor.
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Two kamikaze drones were intercepted in Poonch.
🛡️ India Responds Swiftly
Following the strikes, Indian Air Force jets were scrambled, and national air defence systems were put on high alert. While no mass casualties were reported, the incidents have raised national security concerns, affecting not just cricket, but also civil and transport operations across North India.
📌 Conclusion:
The abrupt cancellation of an IPL 2025 match due to a cross-border attack is a rare and unprecedented event, emphasizing the impact of geopolitical tensions on global sporting events. Further IPL 2025 scheduling decisions are pending and will depend on the evolving security situation in India.
