Sunil Gavaskar Appeals for Subdued IPL 2025 Resumption Amid Tense India-Pakistan Backdrop
In a heartfelt plea, former Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to adopt a somber tone for the resumption of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, scheduled to restart on May 17, 2025. The call comes as the cricketing extravaganza returns after a week-long suspension triggered by escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, following a series of tragic events in Kashmir.
The IPL’s resumption will kick off with a high-voltage clash as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) host the defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. However, Gavaskar believes that the usual glitz and glamour associated with the IPL—marked by blaring music, DJs, and dance performances—should be set aside to honor the sentiments of families grieving in the wake of recent terror attacks in Pahalgam, Kashmir.
Speaking exclusively to Sports Today, the ‘Little Master’ expressed his deep concern for the emotional toll of the ongoing conflict. “I sincerely hope, given the tragic events and the loss suffered by many families, that there is no music or unnecessary fanfare. Let’s not have DJs screaming in the middle of an over or any distractions,” Gavaskar stated. He further added, “Let the games be played, let the crowds cheer for their teams, but just focus on cricket—no dancing girls or excessive celebrations. This would be a meaningful way to respect the sentiments of those who are mourning.”
Gavaskar’s comments are rooted in the recent military operation dubbed ‘Operation Sindoor’, a retaliatory strike by the Indian forces targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This operation followed a devastating attack in Pahalgam that claimed several lives, heightening the already fragile relations between the two neighboring nations. The IPL was suspended for a week as a mark of respect during this period of hostility, a decision Gavaskar endorsed wholeheartedly. “With such tensions, there was no place for sport at that moment. But with a temporary ceasefire in place, resuming the tournament is the right step,” he remarked.
The BCCI released the revised IPL 2025 schedule on Monday night, confirming that a total of 17 matches will be played across six venues in the coming weeks, culminating in the grand final on June 3, 2025. The IPL, often celebrated as a festival of cricket with its vibrant atmosphere, attracts millions of viewers globally, but this year’s edition has been overshadowed by real-world events. The tournament, which began in March, has already seen its fair share of drama on the field, with KKR leading the points table after a dominant campaign under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer and mentorship of Gautam Gambhir.
As the IPL resumes, the spotlight is not just on the thrilling contests but also on how the BCCI responds to Gavaskar’s appeal. Will the board prioritize sensitivity over spectacle in these challenging times? Historically, the IPL has been a platform uniting fans across borders with its festive vibe, but figures show that viewership dipped by 8% during the suspension, reflecting the impact of geopolitical tensions on the sport’s appeal. Tavleen Singh, a noted columnist, echoed Gavaskar’s sentiments on social media, stating, “Cricket must adapt to the times. A toned-down IPL is the need of the hour.”
In wrapping up, Sunil Gavaskar’s poignant request serves as a reminder that cricket, often dubbed a gentleman’s game, carries a deeper responsibility beyond entertainment. As the IPL marches towards its climax, the hope is for the sport to act as a unifying force while respecting the gravity of the situation off the field. With the first ball set to be bowled on May 17, all eyes will be on whether the BCCI opts for silence over sound, choosing empathy over extravagance in honor of those affected by recent tragedies.