Indian cricket authorities are reportedly considering a swift resumption of the Indian Premier League (IPL) after India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire following intense cross-border hostilities.

Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Devajit Saikia told Cricbuzz on Sunday that officials are “closely monitoring the evolving situation” and will decide on the IPL’s future “after consulting all stakeholders and relevant government agencies.”

BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla confirmed to local media that a meeting was scheduled for Sunday to determine the next steps for the suspended tournament.

The IPL was paused on Friday, one day after a match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was called off in Dharamsala, located near Jammu, where explosions had been reported earlier.

Following the suspension, a special train was arranged to bring players back to Delhi due to airspace restrictions, while several foreign players began departing for their home countries.

Franchises were reportedly reaching out to their overseas players and coaching staff on Sunday. ESPNcricinfo reported that the league could resume around May 15, pending government approval.

Twelve regular season matches remain, along with three playoff games and the final, which was originally set for May 25.

The ceasefire comes after a deadly escalation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, who have long contested the Kashmir region. 

On Wednesday, India launched missile strikes in response to an attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, which it blamed on Pakistan. Islamabad has denied involvement.

Since Wednesday, at least 60 people have died on both sides of the border, marking the worst outbreak of violence between the countries in decades.

Source: Agencies

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