MUMBAI: The Indian Premier League (IPL) is grappling with significant disruptions due to the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. In the wake of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) being moved to Dubai for safety reasons, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is now considering whether to postpone the IPL or relocate it to South Africa.
The disruption began when a scheduled IPL match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala was abruptly called off. A power blackout and air-raid warnings near the India-Pakistan border prompted authorities to evacuate players and fans from the stadium. This incident follows the suspension of flight operations in several cities across Pakistan, along with the relocation of the PSL due to a recent drone crash near Rawalpindi Stadium.
Australian players in the IPL, including Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Travis Head, have expressed concerns over the escalating situation, with many in touch with Cricket Australia, which is closely monitoring the developments. The situation has also affected Australian coaches Ricky Ponting and Brad Haddin, who are involved with IPL teams. If tensions continue, the Australian players may return home.
Although the BCCI has not received any official instructions from the Indian government, they are continually reviewing the situation. Off-field events are also being impacted, with Australian podcast hosts Sam Perry and Ian Higgins of the Grade Cricketer cancelling their live shows in India and returning to Melbourne due to safety concerns.
Should the situation worsen, the IPL could follow the PSL’s lead and find a temporary home abroad, potentially without the Australian contingent, depending on how events unfold.
