IPL 2025: PBKS-MI fixture relocated from Dharamshala to Ahmedabad amidst political tension between India, Pakistan (Source: X)
Match 61 of the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League between Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians has officially been relocated to the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. An official press release on the website of the Board of Control for Cricket in India states “logistical challenges” to be the reason behind the same.
The timing of the match (3:30 pm IST) will remain unchanged and will be played on Sunday, May 11 as per the original schedule. This development arises after airports in Chandigarh and Dharamsala were temporarily shut down due to the ongoing political tension between India and Pakistan in relation to the recent terroritst attack in Pahalgam.
However, the game between PBKS and Delhi Capitals will be played as slated at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association on Thursday, May 8. The match is scheduled to commence at 7:30 pm (IST). Understandably so, a heightened security presence is expected for the game between the two sides.
One key issue arising from the change of venue is the branding and banners in and around the stadium. Since the Narendra Modi Stadium is Gujarat Titans’ home ground, it’s filled with the Shubman Gill-led side’s posters and hoardings. With PBKS set to host the game, it remains unclear on what to expect as far as the aforementioned topic is concerned.
The Gujarat Cricket Association has reportedly told the BCCI that GT would be needed to be consulted on the same. GT already have two home games lined up on May 14 and May 18, respectively. This would make it incredibly hard to rebrand such a massive venue.
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