The six venues shortlisted to host the remaining matches 

Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata cities have been chosen keeping in mind the logistics, crowd capacity, and safety protocols. 

The BCCI has stated that necessary precautions and guidelines will be followed to ensure the smooth conduct of the tournament, especially considering the large footfall expected at each venue.

The IPL 2025 season started with high-octane matches and impressive performances by players from all franchises.

The IPL was suspended due to a tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir where 26 civilians, mostly tourists, lost their lives. Following the attack, tensions between India and Pakistan, leading to military action from both sides, including India’s “Operation Sindoor” and retaliatory missile and drone strikes from Pakistan.

Due to the rising security threats, the BCCI decided to pause the tournament to ensure the safety of players, staff, and fans.

Now, after weeks of careful monitoring and improved security conditions, the BCCI has announced that IPL 2025 will officially resume on May 17. The remaining matches will be played across six major cities, and the final is scheduled for June 3.

The last match before the suspension was between KKR and CSK Capitals at the HPCA Stadium in Eden Gardens. The game was abandoned midway due to air raid warnings and a subsequent power outage, causing panic among spectators and players. The BCCI swiftly evacuated the stadium and ensured the safe relocation of all involved parties

All franchises are preparing to return with renewed energy, and players are undergoing training camps to get back into peak form. 

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Before the season kicks off with a blockbuster clash between defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in Kolkata, let’s take a look at the three new rules introduced in IPL 2025.

1. Saliva Ban Lifted in IPL 2025

For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, bowlers can use saliva to shine the ball. The BCCI decided to revoke the ban after getting a majority vote from IPL captains in a meeting held in Mumbai. While the ICC made the saliva ban permanent in 2022, the IPL operates under its regulations, and this decision could influence global cricket in the future.

2. IPL 2025 Introduces a Conditional Second New Ball

To balance the impact of dew in evening matches, a new ball will be introduced from the 11th over of the second innings—but only if the on-field umpires deem the dew factor significant. This rule aims to maintain fairness in high-scoring games. However, it will not apply to afternoon matches.

3. DRS for Wides Introduced in IPL 2025

For the first time in IPL history, the Decision Review System (DRS) will be used for height wides and off-side wides. This ensures more accuracy in umpiring decisions. However, leg-side wides will still be called solely by the on-field umpire.

Impact Player Rule to Continue

Despite mixed reactions, the Impact Player rule—which allows teams to use 12 players instead of 11—will remain in IPL 2025. Critics argue that this rule limits the growth of all-rounders, but the BCCI has chosen to keep it for another season.