As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 gears up to resume on May 17 with Match 58 between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has called for a more subdued and respectful atmosphere for the rest of the tournament.
Following recent border tensions between India and Pakistan, which tragically claimed lives in northern parts of the country, Gavaskar has appealed to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to tone down the entertainment aspects of the league.
Speaking to Sports Today he said, “What I would really like to see is. These are the last few matches, we have had about 60 games or thereabouts. I think it is the last 15 or 16 games. I would sincerely hope, because of what has happened and some families have lost their near and dear ones, I would like that there is no music. Let's not have the DJs screaming in the middle of an over,”
The former India captain emphasised that while cricket should go on, it should be conducted in a way that acknowledges the grief of affected families.
He added,“None of that. Let the games be played. Let the crowds come in. Let's just have a tournament, the balance of a tournament. It's just no dancing girls, nothing. Just cricket would be a really nice way to respect the sentiment of the families who have lost their near and dear ones,”
IPL 2025 to resume amid questions over players availability
The IPL was paused for a week after a Pakistan-initiated attack disrupted Match 58 between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC) in Dharamsala. The match, which had to be stopped mid-way due to the emergency, is now scheduled to be replayed on May 24 in Jaipur.
The resumption of the tournament also coincides with ongoing international cricket commitments, which may impact player availability from key nations such as England, South Africa, and Australia.
As preparations for the remaining fixtures progress, it remains to be seen whether the BCCI will take Gavaskar's advice into account and adopt a more solemn tone for the closing stages of IPL 2025.
