England willing to host IPL 2025, reportedly in talks with BCCI

The IPL 2025 is currently suspended for one week due to the ongoing war-like tension between India and Pakistan. The BCCI issued a statement confirming that further decisions regarding the tournament’s schedule and venues will be made after closely assessing the situation in consultation with all relevant stakeholders and authorities.

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However, if the situation escalates, there is a possibility that the BCCI might look to organise the remainder of IPL 2025 in an overseas country. According to a report in The Guardian, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has already contacted the BCCI with an offer to host the tournament. Richard Gould, the ECB’s Chief Executive, has reportedly reached out to the BCCI offering full support.

A senior ECB source also confirmed that they are in “active talks” to find a quick solution. This is not the first time the ECB has shown interest in hosting the IPL. Back in 2021, when the tournament was paused due to the Covid-19 pandemic, England made a similar offer, but the United Arab Emirates (UAE) eventually hosted the remainder of that season.

“Further updates regarding the new schedule and venues of the tournament will be announced in due course after a comprehensive assessment of the situation in consultation with relevant authorities and stakeholders,” said BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia in a statement. He added that the decision to suspend was taken “following the representations from most of the franchisees, who conveyed the concern and sentiments of their players, and also the views of the broadcaster, sponsors and fans.”

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Apart from England, names like UAE and South Africa have also surfaced as potential hosts, given their past experience in hosting the IPL. The UAE has hosted the tournament on several occasions, and South Africa hosted it in 2009.

According to The Guardian, the ECB is actively engaged and already in discussions with the BCCI. Twelve group games and four knockout matches are yet to be played in the tournament. The Punjab Kings (PBKS) vs Delhi Capitals (DC) clash was also suspended after 10.1 overs of play. Whether that match will remain suspended or be replayed remains to be seen.

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