During the IPL 2025 clash between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala, IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal faced one of his toughest decisions. The disruption came during the first strategic timeout when Dhumal was alerted to a serious security threat: drone attacks in Pathankot and Jammu, cities located near Dharamsala. With 25,000 spectators packed in the stadium, the situation required immediate action. Floodlights were dimmed and then turned off, following blackout protocols.
Initially, the crowd was told the issue was a technical glitch to prevent panic. “We had to manage the crowd calmly without causing chaos,” Dhumal explained in an interview.
He emphasized the need to avoid a stampede while ensuring everyone left safely. Thanks to coordinated efforts from the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association and local police, the evacuation was completed in under 30 minutes.
Behind-the-Scenes Crisis Management
Dhumal described the challenge as unique compared to previous IPL hurdles, such as the COVID-19 suspension. “This was different because we had to stop a live game mid-way for security reasons,” he said. The quick coordination between the IPL operations team and the district administration was crucial.
Within 10 minutes of receiving the alert, Dhumal informed the top officials of both teams about the planned blackout and evacuation, ensuring that players remained calm. He also oversaw the safe exit of the crew and staff working at the venue. Local police helped keep the situation under control by removing barricades, allowing people to leave quickly and smoothly. Dhumal was seen working alongside Punjab Kings co-owner Preity Zinta, reassuring the crowd.
Safe Transit and Future Plans
After the incident, both teams were safely escorted back to Delhi through a carefully coordinated journey involving police convoys. The teams travelled from Dharamsala to Hoshiarpur under Himachal Pradesh Police protection and then to Jalandhar Railway Station with Punjab Police, before catching a train to Delhi.
Dhumal expressed relief that everyone reached safely but acknowledged the logistical difficulties involved. When asked about the fate of the remaining IPL matches, he said it was too early to make decisions.
“Right now, we are standing in full support of our armed forces. The future of the tournament will be decided at the appropriate time,” Dhumal concluded.
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