Australian Players Ready to Quit IPL Over Security Concerns

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is facing major disruption due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan. Just hours after the Pakistan Super League (PSL) was moved to Dubai for safety reasons, the BCCI is now considering similar options for the IPL—either postponing it or relocating it to South Africa.

The situation turned serious after a scheduled IPL match in Dharamsala between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was called off. A power blackout and air-raid warnings near the India-Pakistan border forced authorities to evacuate players and fans. This incident came just a day after Pakistan suspended flight operations in key cities, and the PSL was moved out of the country following a drone crash near Rawalpindi Stadium.

According to The Age, Australian players in the IPL are especially concerned. Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Travis Head are in touch with Cricket Australia, which is monitoring the situation closely. Australian coaches Ricky Ponting and Brad Haddin, who are involved with IPL teams, are also affected. If things do not improve, there is a very real chance that the Aussies will travel back home.

The BCCI has reportedly not received any official instructions from the Indian government yet but admits the situation is being reviewed constantly.

Meanwhile, even off-field events are being affected. Australian podcast hosts Sam Perry and Ian Higgins of the Grade Cricketer, which has already had a run-in with the IPL this year, have cancelled their live shows in India and are flying back to Melbourne, citing safety concerns.

If things don’t improve soon, the IPL could follow the PSL’s path—leaving the subcontinent and finding a temporary home abroad once again. Whether that will be with or without the Australian contingent remains to be seen.