India’s Cricket Super-League Suspended, Pakistan’s Matches Moved Abroad Amid Rising Tensions

India’s cricket board has reportedly suspended the Indian Premier League (IPL) amid escalating tensions with Pakistan.

The lucrative T20 tournament was put on hold after Thursday’s match in Dharamsala was abandoned, just hours after explosions were reported in Jammu, around 200 kilometres away.

The cancellation came on the third day of cross-border hostilities, with India claiming to have repelled overnight drone and artillery attacks from Pakistan.

In response to safety concerns, Pakistan has already relocated its remaining T20 league matches to the United Arab Emirates.

Reports from the Press Trust of India suggest the IPL has now been suspended indefinitely, though the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not issued an official statement.

Chennai Super Kings, a five-time IPL champion team, posted on X: “Nation first. Everything else can wait.”

The interrupted match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was stopped after just 10.1 overs, reportedly due to a floodlight failure. The stadium in Dharamsala was quickly cleared, and players were rushed out in team buses, according to local media. IPL chairman Arun Dhumal was seen signaling fans to evacuate.

The 10-team IPL, which began on March 22 and features international stars, is now in limbo. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported that some Australian players may return home as early as Saturday, with Cricket Australia stating it is in close contact with its players in the region.

Tensions between India and Pakistan have surged following deadly violence in Kashmir, a territory both countries claim.

India launched missile strikes on Wednesday in response to a recent attack on tourists, which it attributes to Pakistan. Islamabad has denied any involvement.

Since Wednesday, more than 50 people have reportedly died on both sides of the border, marking the worst escalation in decades.