IPL match stopped due to fear of India-Pakistan war, cheerleader narrates the incident
The ongoing India-Pakistan conflict has cast its shadow over the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL), leading to the abrupt cancellation of the 58th match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals. The high-stakes encounter, being held at the picturesque HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala, was suspended mid-play due to a sudden blackout and an emergency evacuation following an airstrike alert issued for nearby regions in Jammu & Kashmir and Punjab.
Stadium Blackout Triggers Panic
The match, which had Punjab Kings batting at 122/1 in 10.1 overs, was interrupted when one of the floodlights went out. Within moments, all stadium lights were turned off, leading to confusion and chaos among fans and players alike. Initially, stadium officials cited a technical fault in the floodlights, but the real reason was soon revealed to be a precautionary measure following intelligence reports of a possible aerial threat.
As the panic unfolded, security personnel quickly evacuated players, staff, and spectators from the venue. Eyewitness accounts describe a terrifying scene inside the stadium.
Cheerleader Shares First-Hand Account of Chaos
One of the cheerleaders present during the match shared a harrowing account in a video that has since gone viral on social media:
“Suddenly, the entire stadium was evacuated. While Punjab was batting, one floodlight went off, followed by the rest. Then, chaos broke out. People were shouting, ‘A bomb is coming!’ We were rushed out along with the players. The atmosphere was terrifying. I just want to get out of Dharamsala safely. I hope the IPL authorities take care of us.”
BCCI and Security Forces Respond Swiftly
Following the scare, security forces took control of the venue, ensuring the safe evacuation of all present. Given the heightened military tension following India’s ‘Operation Sindoor’ in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, officials were on high alert for any threats to civilian gatherings.
In a proactive move, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has arranged for a special train from Una to transport IPL players and staff safely to Delhi. Additional security has been deployed along the route to ensure the players' protection.
Tensions Impact National Events
The incident reflects the growing impact of the India-Pakistan conflict on civilian life and public events. With escalating hostilities along the borders and heightened security across northern India, the IPL — often seen as a symbol of national unity and celebration — has now been directly affected by the ongoing military crisis.