Airports closed, teams stranded: IPL matches in danger due to Operation Sindoor!
Operation Sindoor: Why is the IPL schedule getting disrupted?
Due to the surgical strike “Operation Sindoor” carried out by India on terrorist camps in Pakistan, many airports in the country have been closed which is directly affecting the matches of IPL 2025. The PBKS vs MI match to be held on May 11 in Dharamsala may be postponed or shifted. It has been decided to keep 9 airports including Jammu, Srinagar, Amritsar, Chandigarh and Rajkot closed till 5:30 am on May 10. This has ruined the travel plans of IPL teams.
Mumbai Indians stranded, PBKS and DC already in Dharamsala
Mumbai Indians (MI): The team was to reach Dharamsala via Chandigarh on May 8, but this plan was canceled due to the closure of the airport. The team is still stuck in Mumbai.
- Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC): Both these teams have already reached Dharamsala and will play their match on May 8.
- BCCI’s concern: The biggest challenge before the board officials is to get MI to Dharamshala on time. With Chandigarh airport closed the option of Delhi airport is left but the journey from there to Dharamshala is a 10-12 hour road journey which can create problems for the team.
What will happen to the PBKS vs MI match on May 11?
A senior BCCI official said, “We are waiting for government instructions. If the airports remain closed till May 10, the match may have to be shifted to Delhi or Mohali.” However, this will disappoint the spectators of Dharamshala who were going to enjoy two matches of this season.
Airlines advisory: Warning to passengers!
Many airlines have canceled their flights due to Operation Sindoor. Indigo, Air India and Vistara have already alerted the passengers. The runway of Mumbai airport will also be closed for 6 hours on May 8, although this is for pre-monsoon maintenance and not due to Operation Sindoor.
Teams’ condition: DC and PBKS have not received any information!
- PBKS and DC: Both teams have not received any update from BCCI yet.
- MI’s struggle: The team staff and players are stuck in the hote and they do not know when they will be able to reach Dharamsala.
What are the options available to BCCI?
- Postponing the match: But the tight schedule of IPL makes it difficult.
- Changing the venue: Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi or IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali are being considered as options.
- Road trip: MI may have to travel the long distance from Delhi to Dharamsala by road, which will cause fatigue among the players.
Dharamsala’s IPL connection: Why is it important?
The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala is famous for its beautiful mountain views and enthusiastic fans. Two matches are scheduled to be held here this season, one of which is already in danger. Local businessmen and cricket lovers are hopeful that BCCI will find a solution.
Conclusion: The next 48 hours are crucial!
This IPL crisis is expected to be resolved in the next 48 hours due to Operation Sindoor. The matches can be saved only through coordination between BCCI and the government. However, cricket lovers may have to wait a little longer due to safety being the priority.
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