Australian Cricketers Consider Leaving IPL Amidst Rising Tensions

Reports from Australian media indicate that Australian cricketers participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 are exploring options to either return to their home country or relocate to Dubai.

This decision arises from increasing tensions, which have caused a temporary halt to the tournament.

According to sources, multiple players are seeking flights out of India, potentially departing as early as Saturday.

The uncertainty was amplified following the cancellation of Thursday’s match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala, leaving players worried about their safety.

A total of 15 Australian players are currently engaged in IPL 2025, including Test captain Pat Cummins. Former Australian captains Ricky Ponting and Justin Langer are also present in India in coaching capacities.

The IPL 2025 season has been put on hold following a high-profile meeting among Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officials.

Reportedly, various plans were considered, such as moving matches to neutral venues, before the board decided to suspend the competition.

An official announcement regarding the suspension is anticipated imminently, with franchises and relevant parties already informed of the decision.

A senior BCCI official recognized the seriousness of the situation, confirming the suspension of the domestic cricket season.

“Continuing cricket during these times does not seem appropriate. The suspension casts significant doubt over the season’s remaining schedule, initially set to conclude on May 25 in Kolkata,” the official stated.

Prior to the suspension, IPL 2025 had concluded 58 matches, inclusive of the abandoned game in Dharamsala.

Twelve group-stage matches are pending, initially scheduled in cities like Lucknow, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Jaipur.

The playoffs were initially planned for Hyderabad and Kolkata.

While there is no set resumption date, the BCCI is considering a potential window in August–September.

This adjustment could potentially disrupt India’s scheduled tour of Bangladesh and the Asia Cup, both now facing possible rescheduling because of ongoing regional tensions.