PBKS vs MI Shifted? Here's Why Dharamsala May Not Host the Big Match!

The IPL 2025 clash between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Mumbai Indians (MI) is likely to be moved out of Dharamsala. Notably, Match 61 of the tournament is scheduled for Sunday, May 11; however, due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan, the venue may be shifted.
The closure of the Dharamsala airport has disrupted the travel plans of both teams as security has been tightened across the northern part of the country after India launched Operation Sindoor, a military strike on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Due to the closure, travel options have become limited for both Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians. As per reports, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering moving the match to Mumbai.

Who will host PBKS vs MI? Wankhede, DY Patil or Brabourne?

The Wankhede Stadium was initially considered to host the rescheduled match. But with other matches lined up there, it may not be available. Now, the DY Patil Stadium and Brabourne Stadium have emerged as alternate options. An official update is yet to be made, but the sources close to the BCCI suggest a change in venue is almost certain, since security and logistics are now the top priorities for the organisers.

Mumbai Indians exploring new routes

Mumbai Indians were scheduled to arrive in Dharamsala by May 8. But with both Dharamsala and Chandigarh airports closed, the franchise is looking at alternate travel plans. One possible option is flying to Delhi and completing the rest of the journey by road.
However, the route is long and risky due to ongoing military operations and increased security. The final decision on their travel is still pending.

Dharamsala is located close to India’s northern border, and given the current situation, hosting a match with a large crowd in the region poses a serious security challenge. The central government is closely monitoring the situation, and a final call on the venue will be taken after a detailed assessment.

BCCI is also involved in constant discussions with security agencies as the safety of players, officials, and fans is the highest priority.
Notably, Operation Sindoor was India’s response to a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives. In the days that followed, several airports in north-west India were shut down. This included the Kangra Airport, which serves Dharamsala.

DC vs PBKS to go ahead as planned

Meanwhile, the Delhi Capitals vs Punjab Kings match on May 8 will take place as scheduled. The Delhi team reached Dharamsala before the airport was closed. So, the preparations for that game continue as normal. However, after the match, Delhi Capitals are expected to travel by road to New Delhi. They are scheduled to face the Gujarat Titans on May 11. With airports shut, road travel is the only available option for now.

Despite the military situation, IPL 2025 will go on. A close source of the BCCI has revealed that the tournament will not be stopped. Only certain venues may change due to safety concerns. Fans can expect the rest of the IPL to continue as per schedule, with some minor adjustments. The final decision on the PBKS vs MI venue is expected in the coming days. The DY Patil Stadium or Brabourne Stadium are the frontrunner to host the game. The BCCI and the Indian government are working together to ensure a safe and smooth matchday.
As the situation develops, fans will be hoping for a safe and thrilling end to the league stage of IPL 2025.