In a major development impacting global cricket, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been temporarily suspended for a week, while the Pakistan Super League (PSL) has been moved to the UAE due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.

The decision by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to pause the IPL was announced on Friday, following heightened military activity along the border in the Kashmir region. The situation has raised significant safety concerns, leading to a precautionary suspension of one of the world’s most-watched sporting events.

“The well-being of players, officials, and fans is paramount. The resumption schedule will be shared after reviewing the evolving situation,” the BCCI said, emphasizing national security as the overriding concern.

This year’s IPL season, which began in March, still had 12 group-stage fixtures remaining before the playoffs. The final, initially scheduled for May 25 in Kolkata, may now face delays or venue changes.

The recent blackout during the match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamshala, along with the closure of several airports in northern India, further complicated logistics. Punjab’s upcoming match against Mumbai Indians has already been shifted from Dharamshala to Mumbai as a precautionary measure.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed the relocation of the remainder of the PSL season to Dubai. This move follows increased concerns from foreign players and support staff about their safety.

An incident involving a drone crash near the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium just hours before a scheduled PSL match has heightened security concerns. The match was to feature several international stars from countries including Australia, England, South Africa, and the West Indies.

The ongoing crisis has put the cricketing world on alert, with both cricket boards closely monitoring the geopolitical situation. While cricket holds a significant place in both nations’ cultures, current developments have shifted priorities toward safety and stability.

Sri Lanka Cricket has confirmed that the Bangladesh National Men’s Team will tour the island from June 13 to July 16, 2025, for a multi-format bilateral series featuring 2 Tests, 3 ODIs, and 3 T20Is.

The tour kicks off with the Test series, which begins on June 17 at Galle International Stadium, followed by the second Test from June 25 to 29 at the SSC in Colombo. This red-ball series will offer crucial preparation and exposure for both sides ahead of the upcoming ICC events.

Sri Lanka holds a dominant record in Test encounters, having won 20 out of 26 matches against Bangladesh. Bangladesh has managed just one win, with five Tests ending in draws. Their last Test series in April 2024 saw Sri Lanka claim a clean sweep in Bangladesh, 2-0.

The limited-overs leg begins with ODIs on July 2 and 5 at R. Premadasa Stadium, before the third match takes place on July 8 at Pallekele — all day-night games starting at 2:30 PM.

The action continues with the T20I series, starting July 10 in Pallekele, followed by matches in Dambulla (July 13) and a final showdown at R. Premadasa Stadium on July 16.

Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh Tour Fixtures – 2025:

• June 17–21: 1st Test – Galle
• June 25–29: 2nd Test – SSC, Colombo
• July 2: 1st ODI – R. Premadasa Stadium
• July 5: 2nd ODI – R. Premadasa Stadium
• July 8: 3rd ODI – Pallekele
• July 10: 1st T20I – Pallekele
• July 13: 2nd T20I – Dambulla
• July 16: 3rd T20I – R. Premadasa Stadium

This tour promises exciting cricket as both teams aim to fine-tune their squads across formats.

The Football Federation of Sri Lanka has officially announced the Under-19 national squad for the SAFF U19 Championship 2025, featuring a blend of local talent and international prospects. The squad, comprising 23 promising young footballers, will represent the nation in the prestigious South Asian regional tournament scheduled to take place later this year.

The squad showcases a mix of school football stars from leading institutions in Colombo, Galle, Kinniya, and Negombo, along with Sri Lankan-origin players currently based in Australia and the United Arab Emirates. This strategic inclusion of overseas talent is expected to strengthen Sri Lanka’s chances of a deep run in the championship.

Sri Lanka U19 Squad for SAFF Championship 2025

1. Vijayaratnam Haris – St. Joseph’s College, Colombo
2. Senapala Nadal Aaron – Gateway International, Colombo
3. Mohamed Hafeef Akram – T. B. Jayah MV, Colombo
4. Suthakar Roisan Bright – St. Joseph’s College, Colombo
5. Aidan Francis Perera – Gateway International, Colombo
6. Mohamed Rizwan Mohamed Aashif – Zahira College, Colombo
7. Mohamed Shiras Mohamed Shahid – Zahira College, Colombo
8. Krawege Hirun Mirasha – Mahinda College, Galle
9. Kalinga Anupa Pabasara – Mahinda College, Galle
10. Mohamed Rikas Muhammed – Zahira College, Colombo
11. Mohamed Siddeek Mohamed Maziyad – Hameedia Al Husseine College
12. Abdul Hameed Mohammed Irfan – Al Ameen National School, Kinniya
13. Mohammadu Hussain Abdullah – Al Falah, Negombo
14. Silmy Mohamed Hussain – Hameedia Al Husseine College
15. Mohamed Ramlan Abdul Rahman – Hameedia Al Husseine College
16. Mohamed Faris Umar – Darussalam College
17. Kaleelullah Mohamed Katheem – Zahira College, Colombo
18. Edirisinghe Omith (Captain) – Australia
19. Nassim Abdallah Faiz – United Arab Emirates
20. Luckman Rashad Shihab – Royal College, Colombo
21. Zafarullah Zakariyya – Australia
22. Dassanayake Anuk Shahil – Gateway International College
23. Zawahir Ayman Riyas – Australia

Led by captain Edirisinghe Omith, the team will focus on showcasing Sri Lanka’s evolving football potential in a tournament that features South Asia’s best young talents. With preparations underway, the coaching staff is optimistic about the team’s chances to make a lasting impression.

Group Stage Fixtures (IST)

May 9, 7:30 PM – India U19 vs Sri Lanka U19

May 11, 7:30 PM – Sri Lanka U19 vs Nepal U19

Stay tuned to Sri Lankan Sports TV for exclusive updates, match previews, and player highlights as Sri Lanka embarks on its U19 SAFF Championship journey.