Reports: BCCI considering Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru as potential venues for remainder of IPL 2025

With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 currently suspended for a week due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is exploring options to resume the tournament.  The suspension came into effect on May 9 after the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals match in Dharamsala was abruptly stopped due to an emergency. The decision to call of the game was taken keeping player safety, logistics, and the overall geopolitical climate in mind.

In the aftermath, the BCCI has been assessing developments closely before confirming the next decision. However, possible plans are already being discussed. According to sources quoted by The Times of India, the board is considering staging the remainder of the IPL in cities considered relatively secure and logistically feasible, namely Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru.

“A week is a long time when it comes to such matters. The board is chalking out a contingency plan. But the initial feelers are that the BCCI is considering the rest of the IPL matches in cities like Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru if the league restarts next week. If things de-escalate at the border, the board might also retain the original venues,” a source was quoted as saying by Inside Sport.

England offers to host remainder of IPL 2025

With 12 league matches and four playoff fixtures remaining in the tournament, the hurry to complete the tournament is not only from the broadcaster and sponsor perspective but due to the packed international calendar, with India scheduled to tour England for a five-match Test series starting June 20.

Notably, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has reportedly reached out to the BCCI, proposing to host the remainder of IPL 2025 in the United Kingdom.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan also spoke about the idea publicly, believing it would be a practical move given the Indian team's upcoming England tour.

If the security concerns continue in India, the UK believes it could provide a neutral and secure venue. However, shifting the IPL abroad would present logistical issues and time constraints, especially with the monsoon season approaching in India and the Asia Cup also around the corner.