In a significant development amid the indefinite suspension of the Indian Premier League 2025 season, the Gujarat Titans have proactively resumed full-fledged training sessions in Ahmedabad. Despite the lack of clarity from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the resumption date, the Shubman Gill-led franchise is leaving no stone unturned in maintaining momentum as they push for a top-two finish on the league table.
On Sunday evening (May 11), the Titans conducted an extended nets session at the Narendra Modi Stadium, lasting over three hours. The session commenced at 5:30 pm and concluded close to 9:00 pm, under the watchful eyes of both franchise and Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) officials. Notably, the practice featured participation from key international stars such as Kagiso Rabada and Sherfane Rutherford alongside Indian stalwarts like Mohammed Siraj and captain Shubman Gill.
With 16 points from 11 matches, Gujarat Titans currently lead the IPL 2025 table. Their early return to training underscores a focused mindset, not only aiming for a playoff berth but also targeting the highly coveted top-two advantage.
🚨The ongoing TATA IPL 2025 has been suspended for one week with immediate effect 🚨 pic.twitter.com/f8ZbqR9eBf
— Gujarat Titans (@gujarat_titans) May 9, 2025
Punjab Kings Coaching Unit Stays Put Amid Travel Exodus
While uncertainty continues to disrupt team logistics, the Punjab Kings have made headlines with their coaching staff’s decision to remain in India despite escalating tensions that led to the suspension of the league. Head coach Ricky Ponting, along with assistants Brad Haddin and James Hopes, has chosen to stay back, demonstrating a strong sense of commitment even as several overseas players have already departed the country.
This comes in stark contrast to the early reports emerging from Dharamsala, following the abrupt abandonment of the PBKS-Delhi Capitals fixture due to geopolitical tensions. It was initially suggested that several foreign players were reluctant to continue in India. However, the actions of the PBKS coaching trio tell a different story.
With local air travel suspended in the Himachal region, the BCCI swiftly organized a special train service to relocate league personnel from Dharamsala to New Delhi. While this arrangement facilitated the departure of international players, Ponting and his staff remained in the capital, awaiting further developments.
Overseas Player Status: PBKS Navigates Roster Challenges
Punjab Kings currently have six foreign players available in India—Josh Inglis (England), Marcus Stoinis (Australia), Marco Jansen (South Africa), Azmatullah Omarzai (Afghanistan), Aaron Hardie (Australia), and Xavier Bartlett (Australia). The roster also includes Mitch Owen, signed as a replacement for the injured Glenn Maxwell. Owen remains in Dubai, delayed by visa documentation after fulfilling his Pakistan Super League (PSL) commitments.
With PBKS sitting third on the IPL points table (15 points from 11 matches), a Top-2 finish remains well within reach. However, the uncertainty surrounding the fate of their abandoned game against Delhi Capitals could influence their playoff trajectory. The BCCI has yet to determine whether the match will be awarded a single point to each team or rescheduled altogether.
BCCI Awaits Government Clearance to Finalize Return
As of May 11, no official communication has been issued to franchises concerning the resumption of IPL 2025. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia indicated over the weekend that updates would be shared within 48 hours, pending discussions with central government authorities.
Sources reveal a high-level meeting between the BCCI and government representatives is scheduled for Monday (May 12). It is during this session that final approval is expected for the revised schedule, including venues and dates for the remaining 16 matches—comprising 12 league-stage games and four playoffs.
An IPL governing council member noted that the ceasefire developments have created an opening for a swift conclusion to the league, provided logistical and security arrangements align with expectations.
Looking Ahead
While the wait continues, Gujarat Titans and Punjab Kings have shown clear intent by maintaining readiness. The Titans’ on-field drills and the PBKS coaching staff’s presence in India symbolize a broader resilience among IPL stakeholders. Once official confirmation arrives, teams with sustained preparation will have a distinct advantage as the tournament approaches its critical final leg.
The league’s resumption now hinges on a singular pivot—government clearance. Until then, the franchises and their fans remain in cautious anticipation.
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🚨 Gujarat Titans resumed their practice sessions today despite teams awaiting details on the resumption of the IPL
— Cricbuzz (@cricbuzz) May 11, 2025
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✍️ @vijaymirror https://t.co/gQxH4gxOQj#GujaratTitans #IPL #ipl2025 pic.twitter.com/4eWZLnLRz0
Conclusion
As the cricketing world watches closely, Gujarat Titans and Punjab Kings exemplify unwavering commitment and tactical foresight. Their actions, amidst widespread uncertainty, signal strong preparation and team unity. While the BCCI awaits final government approval, it’s evident that certain franchises are already operating at full throttle. With key players staying back and training resuming in earnest, the stage is being quietly but decisively set for a dramatic and competitive conclusion to IPL 2025. Once clarity emerges, those who stayed ready won’t need to get ready.
