With the Indian Premier League (IPL) set to restart on Saturday, May 17, cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has called on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to hold the remaining 17 matches without cheerleaders and DJs. This suggestion comes as a mark of respect after the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam.
BCCI Considers Changes Amidst Tensions
IPL 2025 was paused on May 8 due to rising tensions following the attack that killed 26 civilians. According to a report by India Today, the BCCI is seriously thinking about staging the rest of the tournament with less entertainment and more focus on cricket.
Gavaskar’s Request to Respect Victims
Gavaskar expressed his wish to remove all entertainment elements like loud music, DJs, and cheerleaders for the last few matches. He said, “These are the last 15 or 16 games, and because of what has happened, I feel the showy entertainment should be stopped. Just let the game be played. No DJs screaming in the middle of an over, no dancing girls — just cricket.”
He emphasized that this would be a respectful way to honor the families who lost their loved ones in the tragic attack.
Players Pay Tribute
During a recent match between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians, players wore black armbands to mourn the victims. There were no cheerleaders or fireworks, and a minute of silence was observed to honor those affected by the tragedy, which has received condemnation worldwide.
The BCCI is expected to make an official announcement soon on whether the remaining IPL matches will proceed under these quieter, more respectful conditions.
