Daijiworld Media Network - Dharamshala
Dharamshala, May 8: The high-octane Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 clash between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was abandoned midway at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala on Thursday due to escalating security concerns linked to reported cross-border incidents in Jammu and Kashmir.
The match, which began after a one-hour delay, was halted abruptly in the 11th over with Punjab Kings cruising at 122/1. The floodlights were turned off—initially believed to be a technical issue—before it was confirmed that the game had been called off.
IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal later stated that the decision was taken as a precautionary measure in light of developing events in the region.
“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.
Reports indicated that both teams and spectators were evacuated from the stadium by IPL officials and local authorities. The security escalation followed a blackout in Jammu, with civilians allegedly witnessing missile streaks and drone activity originating from Pakistan. Full blackouts were also reported in Baramulla and Pathankot, while Chandigarh was placed on high alert.
Before the abandonment, Punjab Kings had unleashed a blistering start. Electing to bat first, openers Prabhsimran Singh (50* off 28 balls) and Priyansh Arya (70 off 30) put on a rollicking 122-run stand. Arya opened aggressively, striking Mitchell Starc for back-to-back boundaries, while Prabhsimran followed suit with three consecutive fours off the same bowler.
Despite the introduction of spin via Axar Patel in the fifth over, the Delhi Capitals bowlers failed to contain the run flow, as Punjab ended the powerplay at 69/0. Arya reached his fifty in just 25 balls, and then continued the assault with consecutive sixes off Kuldeep Yadav. Prabhsimran, too, looked in fine form, reaching his fourth successive half-century.
The breakthrough finally came when Arya top-edged a delivery from T. Natarajan to short third-man. However, before the next ball could be bowled, floodlights went out across the stadium, halting play. Shortly after, officials confirmed the abandonment.
Brief scores:
Punjab Kings 122/1 in 10.5 overs (Priyansh Arya 70, Prabhsimran Singh 50; T. Natarajan 1-4) vs Delhi Capitals.