The Indian Premier League (IPL) has hit an unexpected roadblock as logistical challenges mount for teams scheduled to play in Dharamsala, following the temporary closure of the hill town’s airport due to military escalations between India and Pakistan.
The shutdown follows India’s recent precision missile strikes on nine locations in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, in response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, where 26 people — mostly tourists — were killed.
Dharamsala is slated to host the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals match on Thursday, followed by a May 11 fixture between Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians. While both teams have already reached Dharamsala for Thursday’s game, the use of floodlights for the evening clash has raised security concerns amid the prevailing tension.
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“We have not received any written intimation from either the BCCI or the central and state governments regarding the cancellation of tomorrow’s match. Unless there is an official instruction, we are going ahead with the schedule,” a Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association official told a news agency.
The bigger concern looms over Sunday’s match, as Mumbai Indians (MI) may not be able to travel due to the indefinite airport closure. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly considering shifting the May 11 match to Mumbai.
Punjab Kings, who treat Dharamsala as their second home base, have not been informed about any venue change as of now. “We are waiting to hear from the BCCI,” a franchise official said.
Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals (DC) are facing a time crunch, as they are scheduled to play their next game against Gujarat Titans on Sunday in Delhi. With Dharamsala’s airport shut and Chandigarh Airport — the nearest alternative — also non-operational, logistical options are rapidly narrowing.
“One option is a bus journey from Dharamsala to Delhi,” a BCCI official revealed. “But it’s not just the teams. There’s also the broadcast crew, equipment, and other logistics to consider. Everything is fluid at the moment,” he added.
In light of the military action, at least 18 airports across northern and western India have been shut temporarily. These include airports in Srinagar, Leh, Jammu, Amritsar, Pathankot, Chandigarh, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Shimla, Dharamsala, and Jamnagar, affecting both civilian and sporting schedules.
As the situation continues to evolve, the BCCI remains in consultation with franchises and government agencies to ensure the safety of players and staff, while attempting to maintain the integrity of the tournament schedule.
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