No Change in IPL Schedule Despite Military Strikes; Dharamsala Travel Faces Uncertainty

In the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, during which Indian armed forces launched precise strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), speculation has emerged over the impact on ongoing national events—most notably, the Indian Premier League (IPL), which is approaching its climactic stages. The military action came in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians.

Despite the heightened tension, news agency ANI reports that the IPL will proceed according to its original schedule. The situation on the border, for now, is not expected to disrupt the T20 cricket league, which features both Indian and international players.

However, several airports in key cities—Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, Rajkot, and Bhuj—have been temporarily closed until May 10, raising concerns about team logistics and travel.

Among the affected locations is Dharamsala, where Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals are currently stationed ahead of their face-off scheduled for Thursday, May 8. While the game is still on, there is uncertainty about future movement, especially for Mumbai Indians, who are slated to play at the same venue against PBKS on May 11. Travel disruptions could force the team to alter their itinerary.

As per PTI, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is actively engaging with franchises to work out alternative travel arrangements should the Dharamsala airport remain closed.

A BCCI official, speaking anonymously, confirmed, “Everything is fluid at the moment. Discussions are on with franchises and they are also internally discussing about what are the options of travelling from Dharamsala to Delhi in case the airport remains shut.”

He added that one feasible option for Delhi Capitals is a bus journey, though the broader logistics—including the movement of broadcast teams and equipment—make the situation more complex. He emphasized that it remains an evolving scenario.