Operation Sindoor, India’s strategic response targeting terrorist camps in Pakistan, is now causing unexpected ripples in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Several key airports—Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot—are closed till 5:30 AM IST on May 10, disrupting travel across northern India.
With these closures, IPL teams headed to Dharamsala are left scrambling. Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC), already in Dharamsala for their May 8 face-off, remain unaffected for now. However, Mumbai Indians (MI), scheduled to arrive later for their May 11 clash, may need to pivot fast.
According to a senior BCCI official, “We’ll wait and watch. Even Chandigarh airport is shut. That leaves Delhi as the closest alternative, but it’s a long road trip from there.” The Board is monitoring government advisories and exploring backup plans.
The MI squad, currently stationed in Mumbai post their match against Gujarat Titans, hasn’t officially cancelled their travel but is likely to do so if the situation persists. While the match schedule remains unchanged for now, the disruption could force the BCCI to rearrange logistics swiftly.
This week, Dharamsala is set to host two IPL fixtures. But if airport shutdowns continue, the Board may need to act fast—either by organizing alternate transportation or considering a venue change.
