ISLAMABAD: Amid the smouldering aftermath of a deadly border flare-up between two nuclear-armed cricket archrivals, Pakistan and India, legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has called for a subdued return of the Indian Premier League (IPL), urging The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to forgo its usual spectacle of cheerleaders and blaring music when the tournament resumes on May 17.
Grave reality
The plea from Gavaskar comes at a time when New Delhi continues to downplay the toll of the recent border exchange, insisting Pakistan bore the brunt. Yet, emerging reports and the reaction from influential Indian voices hint at a graver reality for India. Despite government claims of minimal damage, the ground situation and rising concerns suggest that India suffered significant losses in the border confrontation in the wake of the Pahalgam incident—losses too severe to be masked by rhetoric.
The IPL 2025 was momentarily halted, with tensions spilling into the sporting arena after the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals match in Dharamshala was cancelled due to security fears. In a league known for its glitz, glamour, and revenues, the decision to resume play comes with a marked shift in tone.
No dance, no DJ: Gavaskar
Speaking in a sombre vein, Gavaskar stated, “I hope there’s no music and no girls dancing when the IPL resumes. Some families have lost their near and dear ones, let the games be played, let the crowd come in, but just cricket. No dance, no DJ.”
His remarks underscore the deep emotional impact the recent clashes have had, particularly on the Indian side.
Synonymous with extravaganza
Since its inception in 2008, the IPL has been synonymous with extravaganza—cheerleaders, pulsating music, and choreographed celebrations. But this year, with soldiers and civilians having paid the ultimate price, calls are mounting to strip the event of its festive frills.
As per the revised IPL 2025 schedule, the tournament will continue across six cities—Delhi, Jaipur, Lucknow, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad—with 13 matches left before the playoffs. The final showdown is now set for June 3, but the shadow of national grief may linger long after the last ball is bowled.
