IPL 2025 Resumption to Feature More Double Headers: Report

As the BCCI gears up to restart IPL 2025 following a week-long suspension due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, officials are planning to revise the schedule by introducing additional double headers to ensure the tournament concludes within May.

The season came to an unexpected halt on May 8, when the match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was abandoned mid-way due to deteriorating security conditions near the India-Pakistan border. Soon after, the BCCI announced a one-week suspension of the league to assess the situation.

However, with both countries announcing a ceasefire on Saturday, the BCCI is now optimistic about resuming the remaining 17 matches of the tournament-which include 13 league games, three playoffs, and the final.

"We may have to add a few more double headers. But following discussions, we could try and allow teams the home advantage as much as possible," an IPL official told Hindustan Times.

The BCCI is expected to hold a crucial meeting today to finalise the revised schedule. The board will coordinate with the Indian government and consult all major stakeholders, including franchises, broadcasters, and state associations, before making a formal announcement.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that government approval will be sought before any restart date is confirmed. "Given the importance of IPL at this juncture, it will also be prudent and necessary to take the nod of the Government of India before finalising the time for its restart. BCCI will duly announce the date of IPL restart once the whole process is over in due course of time," Saikia told Cricbuzz.

In the meantime, several overseas players have flown back home after the temporary suspension. While they are expected to return once the revised schedule is in place, sources indicate that formal communication regarding their recall is yet to be made.

The addition of more double headers is likely to intensify the competition, as teams will have to manage tight turnarounds while jostling for playoff spots in a compressed window.