Floodlight Failure Abandons IPL Match in Dharamsala

Dharamsala, India – The Indian Premier League (IPL) match between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC) was abruptly abandoned on May 8, 2025, due to a floodlight failure at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium. The match was called off after just 10.1 overs, with Punjab Kings scoring 122 for 1 before the lights malfunctioned.

Punjab Kings won the toss and opted to bat. The opening pair of Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh delivered a strong performance, with Arya scoring 70 runs off 34 balls and Singh contributing 50 runs from 28 deliveries. Their partnership set a foundation for a potentially high-scoring game before the floodlights went out.

According to a statement from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the match was abandoned due to a significant technical failure caused by a power outage that affected the floodlight towers. BCCI expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to fans who were in attendance.

Previously, the match faced delays due to rain, but it was the unexpected blackout that led to the halt in the game. The situation escalated when air raid alerts were issued in nearby regions, prompting officials to evacuate approximately 18,000 spectators from the stadium for safety reasons.

IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal was seen instructing fans to leave the venue after the lights failed, as concerns over broader security issues arose. The match was officially abandoned around 9:40 PM IST, approximately 11 minutes after the floodlights ceased working.

This incident adds to the growing uncertainty surrounding the IPL, as another match scheduled on May 11 between Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians was relocated to Ahmedabad due to ongoing safety concerns. The closure of Dharamsala airport, following military operations in the region, compounds the complications faced by the league.

As the tournament continues, all eyes are on the BCCI and IPL officials to address the safety issues raised by players and fans. While hopes remain for the season to continue, the immediate focus is on ensuring the safety and security of everyone involved in the league.