Even as tensions between India and Pakistan simmer at the border with each passing day and the BCCI suspending IPL 2025 for a week, there are massive financial implications. A report by The Hindustan Times has claimed that the BCCI loses approximately Rs. 125 crore for every game not being played during the season.
A floodlight failure caused the stoppage of the match between the Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings in Dharamsala on Thursday. The match had to eventually be abandoned as there were drone strikes from Pakistan in several cities in India. The escalating border tensions between India and Pakistan prompted the BCCI to suspend the competition for a week.
However, talks of resumption is likely to resume in a week, with numerous consultations among the relevant stakeholders. Despite the country being in a highly sensitive situation, it's worth noting that the loss for the BCCI stems between ₹100 and ₹125 crore. The loss still becomes a hefty one even if insurance steps in when broadcast, sponsorship and other match-related revenues are taken into account.
While the BCCI will most likely finish the tournament this year but if, for some uncontrollable reasons, they are not, they stand to lose one-third of the ₹5,500-crore advertisement revenue the board would have earned.
"BCCI will definitely complete IPL" - Sourav Ganguly
During a recent interview with The India Today, ex-Indian captain Sourav Ganguly expressed optimism about BCCI completing the tournament. At the same time, Ganguly suggested that a seven-day break was needed, with the country being in the middle of a sensitive situation.
"Even where there were so many problems in 2020 and 2021, the IPL was still completed. The BCCI is so efficient that they will certainly complete the IPL. BCCI will definitely complete IPL. It’s a seven-day break, the tournament will be extended by seven days as well if needed."
If the board cannot resume the IPL in the coming week, the BCCI could look at the August window. However, it would mean cancelling the limited-overs tour of Bangladesh and also looking at other country's player availability.
