SYDNEY/NEW DELHI: Australian cricketers are unlikely to return to India for the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, amid ongoing concerns over the security situation following recent tensions between India and Pakistan, according to a report by The West Australian.
The IPL was officially suspended for one week on Friday after a match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala was abruptly abandoned.
The decision came in the wake of reported explosions in Jammu, located less than 200 kilometres from the venue.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) cited “safety and logistical challenges” as reasons for the temporary halt.
After the announcement, several foreign players, including Australians, immediately left the country.
The West Australian reported that many Australian players are hesitant to return to India, even after India and Pakistan announced a ceasefire on Saturday.
The geopolitical situation, it said, has left players “rattled”, with concerns about their personal safety persisting despite the de-escalation.
Cricket Australia (CA) is reportedly supporting its players’ decisions to skip the remainder of the tournament.
According to the publication, CA has communicated that the welfare of its players remains the top priority and that no individual would be pressured to return.
Meanwhile, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia told Cricbuzz that any decision regarding the resumption of the IPL will be made after consultation with all stakeholders, including government authorities.
“We are closely monitoring the evolving situation. A call on IPL resumption will be taken in consultation with all stakeholders and the concerned government authorities,” Saikia said.
Rajeev Shukla, vice-president of the BCCI, confirmed that a meeting has been scheduled for Sunday to decide the future course of action.
“We are in touch with state officials and central agencies. The safety of players and fans remains our highest priority,” he told Indian media.
