New Zealand Cricketers Depart India as IPL 2025 Suspended Due to Escalating Border Issues

10 May 2025, New Delhi

In response to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has temporarily suspended the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 for one week. This decision has led to several international players, including five New Zealand cricketers, returning to their home country.

Several well-known players from New Zealand are among the suspended players who have either left India or are returning to the country. NZC, which prioritizes the players’ safety amidst the escalating security concerns, stated that the players will return as soon as flights become available.

After PSL suspended all foreign players, officials, and crew are safely flown to Dubai via chartered flight.

-While After IPL was suspended in India, foreign players from Australia, England, and New Zealand were left stranded, desperately searching for ways to return home. pic.twitter.com/piVoZTWaAK

— junaiz (@dhillow_) May 10, 2025

The suspension follows a string of security issues, like as the cancellation of a Punjab Kings vs. Delhi Capitals game in Dharamsala because of a power outage and local unrest. This action demonstrates the growing geopolitical landscape and its profound effect on global athletic events.

Also Read : IPL 2025 Temporarily Suspended Amid Escalating India-Pakistan Tensions

A number of prominent New Zealanders who are participating in the IPL are also going home, in addition to the players who are now playing. They include current IPL team captains Daniel Vettori and Stephen Fleming, both former Black Caps captains. Other key Kiwi figures, including Shane Bond and James Franklin, are also departing, further emphasizing the significant New Zealand presence in the tournament.

The BCCI has stated that further updates regarding the new schedule and venues of the tournament will be announced after a comprehensive assessment of the situation in consultation with relevant authorities and stakeholders.

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