The IPL 2025 match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamshala was called off due to security concerns following blackout reports and suspected drone activity in Jammu. Punjab Kings were 122/1 when the floodlights were turned off and evacuation procedures were initiated for safety.
The highly anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 clash between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was abruptly called off due to security concerns at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala on Thursday. IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal confirmed the development to IANS, revealing that the decision was taken as a precaution following serious incidents reported in Jammu and surrounding regions.
At the time of the game’s suspension, Punjab Kings were cruising at 122/1 in 10.1 overs, with opener Priyansh Arya playing a blistering knock of 70 and Prabhsimran Singh unbeaten on 50. The call-off was signaled by the floodlights being switched off, triggering immediate evacuation protocols for fans and players alike.
“Yes, the match has been called off as a precautionary step, because there are some incidents which happened in Jammu, I believe. That’s what we got to know, so we thought it’s wise to call off the game,” Dhumal said from Dharamshala.
Reports indicate that a complete blackout was observed in Jammu following civilian sightings of missile streaks and suspected drone attacks from across the border. The ripple effect of these tensions led to blackouts in Baramulla and Pathankot, with Chandigarh also placed on high alert.
In the match, which began an hour late due to unspecified reasons, Punjab Kings got off to a dream start. Electing to bat first, Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh combined for a powerful 122-run opening stand. Arya was in an aggressive mood from the outset, smashing consecutive boundaries off Mitchell Starc, while Prabhsimran joined the act with three boundaries of his own in the same over.
Despite Delhi Capitals introducing Axar Patel early in the fifth over, the PBKS openers continued their assault, taking the team to 69/0 by the end of the powerplay. Arya reached his half-century in just 25 balls and followed it up with two massive sixes off Kuldeep Yadav. Meanwhile, Prabhsimran brought up his fourth consecutive fifty in 28 balls.
DC managed to finally break the opening partnership when T. Natarajan dismissed Arya with a short third-man catch. However, before the next ball could be delivered, the stadium was plunged into darkness due to floodlight failure — a precursor to the official abandonment of the match.
While no further details have been provided, it is clear the safety of players and spectators took precedence amid escalating regional tensions.
