The BCCI has officially confirmed that the 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will resume on Saturday, May 17, following a week-long suspension triggered by escalating conflict between India and Pakistan.
With the announcement of a ceasefire and clearance from the Indian government, the board, in coordination with relevant stakeholders, decided to restart the tournament that had been abruptly halted the previous Friday.
During the tense period, several overseas players and members of the support staff had returned to their respective countries, uncertain about the situation’s resolution. Now with the environment stabilizing, the IPL franchises are actively working to bring back their international recruits for the final stretch of the competition.
The Cricket Australia issued a statement following the resumption news, making it clear that players will have the autonomy to decide whether or not they wish to return to India. The board affirmed it will respect individual decisions and is working closely with both the Australian government and the BCCI regarding security and safety measures for those who choose to participate.
In addition to addressing player welfare, the Australian board also acknowledged the broader context, noting that the team management will assess and adjust preparations for the upcoming World Test Championship final, particularly for players opting to stay on and compete in the concluding matches of the IPL.
The list of Australian players involved in the IPL includes high-profile names such as Pat Cummins, Travis Head, Tim David, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Owen, Marcus Stoinis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Xavier Bartlett, Mitchell Marsh and Spencer Johnson, many of whom had already left India when the situation escalated.
A notable development came from within the Punjab Kings camp, where franchise head coach and Australian cricket legend Ricky Ponting made a significant decision that influenced team morale. Ricky Ponting who was preparing to return home reversed his decision after the ceasefire and opted to stay in India.
His leadership extended beyond personal commitment, he managed to inspire and convince the team’s overseas players to rejoin the squad as the league resumes. According to the Punjab Kings CEO Satish Menon, Ricky Ponting’s influence and motivational words played a pivotal role in ensuring the team remains united for the remainder of the tournament.
With 17 matches remaining, the IPL will now unfold across six venues. The highly anticipated restart will be marked by a clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Kolkata Knight Riders, setting the stage for a dramatic and emotionally charged conclusion to the 2025 season.
