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The ongoing IPL 2025 season witnessed a tense pause as geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan briefly overshadowed the cricketing action. The high-stakes match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala on May 8 was halted due to security concerns, prompting the BCCI to suspend the league for a week. With uncertainty in the air, several overseas players began preparing to leave India.
However, Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting made a bold and inspiring move. Initially aboard a flight in Delhi, Ponting deboarded after learning of a ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan. He then took it upon himself to persuade PBKS’s overseas contingent to remain in the country.
“Only Ricky could have done that. It speaks volumes about his leadership,” said PBKS CEO Satish Menon, reflecting on Ponting’s efforts to calm his squad.
Despite his efforts, foreign players including Marcus Stoinis, Aaron Hardie, Josh Inglis, and Xavier Bartlett ultimately decided to depart India after a challenging trip from Dharamsala to Delhi. Meanwhile, South Africa’s Marco Jansen and Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai have temporarily settled in Dubai, staying close to India should the league resume quickly.
IPL Set to Resume with Revised Schedule
On Sunday, the BCCI finalized new venues and a revised fixture list, which is expected to be shared with franchises shortly. With a significant portion of their Indian squad still available, PBKS looks ready to return to action once the league resumes.
PBKS Inches Closer to Playoffs
Currently placed third on the IPL 2025 points table, Punjab Kings have secured seven wins from eleven matches, with two fixtures abandoned. A single win could guarantee them a playoff berth—marking their first top-four finish since 2014.