An IPL match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamshala was abruptly cancelled on Thursday due to security concerns. Reports indicate a nearby air raid warning prompted a city-wide blackout.
Sports News: The escalating military tension between India and Pakistan is now visibly impacting the IPL 2025, India's most popular cricket tournament. The Punjab Kings versus Delhi Capitals match at Dharamshala's HPCA Stadium on Thursday was suddenly cancelled due to security reasons. During the match, an air raid warning was issued for Dharamshala and surrounding areas, leading to an emergency city-wide blackout.
Fear in the Night's Silence
Around 8:30 PM on Thursday, while the match was in full swing, news emerged of drone activity and potential attacks from the Pakistani border. The administration swiftly responded by issuing an air raid warning for Dharamshala and several northern cities. To manage the situation, an immediate blackout was implemented, and orders were given to evacuate public places.
The Decision to Cancel the Match
Around 9:29 PM, the stadium floodlights suddenly went out. At that time, Punjab's innings was in its 10.1 over, with the team having scored 122 runs for one wicket. Spectators and players were initially confused, but the situation became clear within minutes as security forces increased their activity.
Match officials and BCCI representatives immediately convened an emergency meeting and decided to cancel the match. Spectators were requested to leave the stadium, and players were escorted out under protective cover.
Punjab's Strong Start
Punjab Kings, after winning the toss, opted to bat first. Openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh aggressively attacked the Delhi bowlers, forming a 122-run partnership for the first wicket. Priyansh played a whirlwind innings of 70 runs off 34 balls, including six fours and four sixes. Prabhsimran Singh remained unbeaten on 50 runs. However, just as the game reached a thrilling point, the security crisis brought the proceedings to a halt.
New Security Standards to be Set?
Following the match cancellation, the BCCI has called an emergency Governing Council meeting to discuss this sensitive issue. It is expected that the following topics will be considered:
- Whether it is appropriate to hold future matches in border areas like Dharamshala.
- Whether the remaining matches should be relocated to safer venues.
- New guidelines for the safety of players and spectators will be formulated.
