As tensions between India and Pakistan intensified, Indian women’s cricket team vice-captain Smriti Mandhana expressed her respect and gratitude for the Indian Armed Forces. In an Instagram story shared on Saturday, she praised their bravery and service to the nation.
“Saluting the courage, commitment and sacrifice of our Indian Armed Forces. Your strength protects our freedom. We stand with you, always, Vande Mataram,” Mandhana wrote, highlighting the nation’s solidarity with the military.
IPL 2025 Put on Hold Due to Border Tensions
Amid the growing cross-border conflict, several sports events in India were either suspended or delayed. The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 became one of the major tournaments affected. On Friday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officially halted the remainder of the tournament for one week.
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia issued a statement saying, “The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to suspend the remainder of the ongoing IPL 2025 with immediate effect for one week. Further updates regarding the new schedule and venues of the tournament will be announced in due course after a comprehensive assessment of the situation in consultation with relevant authorities and stakeholders.”
Saikia further explained the decision, saying, “The decision was taken by the IPL Governing Council after due consultation with all key stakeholders following the representations from most of the franchisees, who conveyed the concern and sentiments of their players, and also the views of the broadcaster, sponsors and fans; while the BCCI reposes full faith in the strength and preparedness of our armed forces, the Board considered it prudent to act in the collective interest of all stakeholders.”
Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 Also Postponed
Later the same day, organisers of the first-ever Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 announced that the event—originally scheduled for May 24 at Bengaluru’s Sree Kanteerava Stadium—had been postponed indefinitely due to the ongoing tension.
In an Instagram post, the organisers said, “In light of the current situation, the inaugural edition of the NC Classic has been postponed until further notice. This decision has been made after careful thought and consultation, with the well-being of athletes, stakeholders, and the broader community as the top priority.”
They further added, “We believe in the unifying power of sport. But, in this critical moment, standing firm with the nation matters most. All our gratitude and thoughts at this point are only with our Armed Forces, who are at the forefront for our nation. A revised schedule for the NC Classic will be provided in due course. Jai Hind.”
Bengal Pro T20 League Season 2 Delayed
The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) also chose to delay the second season of the Bengal Pro T20 League, including all related events. The decision came after a review of the situation and discussions with concerned authorities.
In a statement, CAB confirmed that the new schedule—along with revised venues and fixtures—will be announced later. The board also said it would follow any further guidance issued by the BCCI to ensure safety.
