IPL 2025: Will DC vs PBKS match happen in Dharamsala as airport shuts amid Operation Sindoor fallout?
By Aditya Bhagchandani Published on May 7, 2025, 15:28 IST
As Delhi Capitals prepare to take on the high-flying Punjab Kings in a high-stakes IPL 2025 clash, political tensions and military escalations may force a sudden shift in venue. The scheduled match in Dharamsala on Thursday is now under serious review following airport closures across northern India, including Dharamsala, amid fallout from India's military response dubbed Operation Sindoor.
The Indian Army carried out precision strikes against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on May 7, triggering heightened security alerts across the border states. In response, aviation authorities ordered temporary shutdowns of 13 northern airports including Dharamsala, Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, Rajkot, and others. Flights to and from these cities have been suspended until May 10, casting uncertainty over logistical support for the IPL game.
Sources in the BCCI have indicated that the match is unlikely to be shifted to Mumbai, because both the teams have majorly arrived but the match of Punjab Kings against Mumbai Indians can be shifted to Mumbai but as of now PBKS vs DC remains unaffected by the current travel restrictions. An official announcement is awaited.
Delhi Capitals, currently fifth with 13 points from 11 games, are desperate to keep their playoff hopes alive after a string of losses and a rain-curtailed no-result. Their batting woes continue, with the top order collapsing against Sunrisers Hyderabad in the last outing. Despite efforts from Tristan Stubbs and Ashutosh Sharma, DC posted only 133 in that match.
Punjab Kings, meanwhile, have been one of the most consistent sides this season. With seven wins in 11 matches, they sit just outside the top two. Prabhsimran Singh and skipper Shreyas Iyer have been the backbone of PBKS's strong batting line-up. Arshdeep Singh and Yuzvendra Chahal are leading the bowling attack with match-winning spells.
As Operation Sindoor continues to alter the national landscape, the IPL too finds itself navigating uncharted logistical challenges. Fans of both teams now await clarity on the new venue, with Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium emerging as a potential replacement.
Aditya Bhagchandani serves as the Senior Editor and Writer at Business Upturn, where he leads coverage across the Business, Finance, Corporate, and Stock Market segments. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to journalistic integrity, he not only contributes insightful articles but also oversees editorial direction for the reporting team.
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