IPL 2025 Returns: New Dates and Schedule Announced
The Indian Premier League 2025 is set to resume after a brief suspension, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has released a revised fixture list for the remaining matches. The decision comes after close coordination with government bodies and security officials, ensuring the safety of players and spectators amid recent geopolitical tensions.
A total of 17 matches, including 4 playoff games, are to be held across 6 Indian cities with updated dates and venues.
Opening Clash: RCB vs KKR in Bengaluru on May 17
According to the latest schedule, the league will restart with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) taking on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on May 17 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. Interestingly, RCB will also feature in the final league match on May 27 against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
Venues for the Remaining Matches
The remaining 17 matches will be played across six key cities:
-
Bengaluru – 2 matches
-
Jaipur – 3 matches
-
Delhi – 3 matches
-
Mumbai – 1 match
-
Ahmedabad – 2 matches
-
Lucknow – 2 matches
Each venue has been selected for its logistical readiness and safety considerations.
Delhi to Host Key Matches
Fans in Delhi can look forward to some exciting games:
-
May 18: Delhi Capitals vs Gujarat Titans
-
May 20: Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals
-
May 25: Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Kolkata Knight Riders
A special highlight will be the CSK vs RR match featuring MS Dhoni at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Top Teams So Far
As of the latest standings, the Top 4 teams in IPL 2025 are:
-
Gujarat Titans
-
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
-
Punjab Kings
-
Mumbai Indians
These teams are currently in strong contention for the playoffs, depending on the results of the upcoming games.
Rescheduled Match: PBKS vs DC to Be Played in Jaipur
The previously suspended game between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC)—which was interrupted due to a stadium blackout and security alerts—has been rescheduled for May 24 in Jaipur.
Playoffs and Final Dates Confirmed
The BCCI has outlined the new timeline for the playoffs:
-
Qualifier 1 – May 29
-
Eliminator – May 30
-
Qualifier 2 – June 1
-
IPL Final – June 3
This timeline ensures completion of the tournament before the World Test Championship (WTC) Final begins on June 11.
Overseas Player Availability in Question
Due to the tight schedule and the proximity of the WTC Final, several international players, especially from Australiaand South Africa, may opt out of the remaining IPL matches. Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc are reportedly considering early departures.
The BCCI is still awaiting final confirmations from various franchises regarding their overseas squad availability.
BCCI’s Careful Coordination
The league’s resumption comes after intense discussions between the BCCI, central authorities, and key stakeholders. The board emphasized that public safety and the spirit of the game remain top priorities. Double headers have been limited to two Sundays only, to prevent overexertion of players.
Impact of Ongoing Tensions
This season was briefly paused after escalations in India-Pakistan relations following the Pahalgam Attack in April. A ceasefire was momentarily achieved through international diplomacy, but continued unrest led the BCCI to temporarily suspend matches after the PBKS vs DC clash on May 9. The league now returns with tightened security and a compressed yet manageable format.
Final Word
Cricket fans can now rejoice as the IPL 2025 is back on track, promising thrilling clashes and playoff drama. The tournament is expected to wrap up smoothly, with top teams gearing up to deliver high-octane performances.
Stay tuned for match highlights, player updates, and more exclusive coverage on your trusted cricket platform.
Comments are closed.