BCCI urged to skip DJs, ‘dancing girls’ as IPL 2025 heads for resumption this week

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to return on May 17, following a week-long suspension prompted by escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The resumption will begin with a high-stakes clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

However, the nature of the IPL’s return is now under the spotlight, with calls growing for a more sombre and respectful tone, in honour of victims of the Pahalgam terror attack, which was sponsored by Pakistan.

Gavaskar calls for a toned-down tournament

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to ensure that the remaining matches are conducted with decorum and sensitivity.

Speaking to Sports Today, he said: “I would sincerely hope, because of what has happened and some families have lost their near and dear ones, there is no music. Let’s not have the DJs screaming in the middle of an over.”

Gavaskar also suggested doing away with cheerleaders for the rest of the season, advocating that "just cricket" would be the best way to honour the victims’ families and maintain dignity in a period of national grief.

“Let the games be played. Let the crowds come in. Let's just have a tournament, the balance of a tournament. It's just no dancing girls, nothing,” he added.

ALSO READ: IPL 2025: Royal Challengers Bengaluru suffer massive blows, Jitesh Sharma likely to lead team

Revised IPL schedule confirmed

The BCCI released the revised schedule for the remainder of the season on Monday night. A total of 17 matches will now be played across six venues, culminating with the IPL final on June 3.

#TATAIPL is back in action on 17th May 🗓

With the playoff race heating up, which fixture are you most excited for? 🙌

Check out the full schedule 🔽 pic.twitter.com/OoRlYEpAUb

— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 14, 2025

Key fixtures include the Qualifier 1 and Eliminator on May 29 and 30, and Qualifier 2 on June 1, while the venue for the playoffs will be disclosed in the coming days.

The previous Match 58 between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC), which was halted mid-way in Dharamsala, is now rescheduled to take place in Jaipur on May 24.

ALSO READ: BCCI 'toothless' to take action against overseas stars skipping IPL 2025

Sentiments clash with entertainment ethos

IPL has long been known for its glitz and high-energy entertainment value, with music, DJs, and cheerleaders playing an integral role in its matchday experience. But in light of the national mood, there is mounting sentiment to strip the spectacle down to its sporting essence.

It is worth mentioning that the final stretch of IPL 2025 also coincides with international commitments, raising uncertainties about the availability of key overseas players from England, Australia, and South Africa.

However, attention remains firmly on how India’s most-watched sporting league balances its trademark appeal with a call for restraint.