Cricket fans, rejoice! After a brief pause, the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is officially set to return. The action resumes on May 17 with a thrilling match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in Bengaluru. The grand final is scheduled for June 3, although the venue is still under discussion.

Why Was the IPL 2025 Interrupted?

The IPL was put on hold following heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. The situation escalated last week when the match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was called off midway in Dharamsala due to air raid alerts in nearby cities like Jammu and Pathankot.

However, with the announcement of a ceasefire, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has moved swiftly to bring the tournament back on track.

What’s the New Schedule?

• Resumes: May 17, 2025 – RCB vs KKR in Bengaluru
• Final: June 3, 2025 – Venue to be decided
• Matches Left: 12 league games and 4 playoff matches
• Double-Headers: Two Sundays will feature double matches
• Playoff Dates: Qualifier 1 set for May 29
• Interrupted Game (PBKS vs DC): Now to be replayed on May 24 in Jaipur

Where Will the Remaining Matches Be Played?

While cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Dharamsala, and Chandigarh are unlikely to host matches due to safety and logistical concerns, the IPL will continue across these six shortlisted venues:

• Bengaluru
• Hyderabad
• Chennai
• Kolkata
• Lucknow
• Jaipur (for rescheduled match)

Current Points Table – The Race to Playoffs

As we enter the final leg of the tournament, here’s how the table looks:

1. Gujarat Titans – 16 points, NRR: +0.793
2. RCB – 16 points, NRR: +0.482
3. Punjab Kings – 15 points
4. Mumbai Indians – 14 points
5. Delhi Capitals – 13 points
6. KKR – 11 points
7. Lucknow Super Giants – 10 points

Teams out of contention: Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Rajasthan Royals.

What’s at Stake?

RCB has a unique opportunity to make history by becoming the first team to win all 7 away matches in a single season. Their final league game is against Lucknow Super Giants on May 27.

Meanwhile, fans will be watching closely as top teams battle for a place in the top 2 and a shot at Qualifier 1.

What the BCCI Has to Say

BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla and Secretary Devajit Saikia have confirmed that all stakeholders — including franchises, broadcasters, and government officials — are on board for the restart.

“A total of 17 matches will be played across six venues starting May 17 and culminating in the final on June 3,” said Saikia.

The BCCI also mentioned that government clearance was a crucial step before finalising the revised schedule.

No Home Farewell for Dhoni?

Chennai Super Kings’ remaining home match has been shifted to Delhi, meaning MS Dhoni might not get his farewell moment at Chepauk this year. Fans now hope 2026 brings that emotional goodbye on home turf.

To Wrap Up

• IPL 2025 resumes on May 17
• Final match on June 3
• 17 matches left, including playoffs
• New venues, but the excitement remains the same!

Set your reminders — this summer promises thrilling cricket, nail-biting finishes, and a fierce battle for the coveted IPL trophy.