IPL 2025: Punjab Kings v Delhi Capitals match abandoned due to power cut in Dharamsala

In a shocking turn of events, the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 game between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC) at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala was called off following a power failure. The incident, which led to the collapse of one of the towers of the floodlights, led to the match officials calling off the game in mid-flow, disappointing spectators as much as players.

The night of 8 May had been a planned night for the match, but already the planned time had been delayed due to incessant rain and wet outfield. A 90-minute wait followed before the game actually began, and Punjab Kings began the night with a firecracker of an opening as they put up an attacking batting performance.

Young Priyansh Arya got the proceedings underway with a whirlwind innings, scoring 70 runs from 28 balls, comprising 7 fours and 5 sixes. He was well supported by Prabhsimran Singh, who remained not out on 50 off 28 balls. The duo took full advantage of the powerplay overs, troubling the Delhi bowling team. Punjab Kings were 122/1 in 10.1 overs when all of a sudden the lights on one side of the ground were turned off.

Although all efforts were taken by the ground staff and technical team to restore power, the fourth of the four floodlight towers was not made operational. In view of the importance of proper light to protect the players and provide fairness, the umpires, on consultation with match referees and the IPL technical team, came to the conclusion to forfeit the match.

This extraordinary event is one of the few instances when an IPL match in history has been halted due to a power breakdown. Even though rain break-ups are common, a lighting breakdown of this nature is highly unusual, especially at a leading venue like Dharamsala which has a scenic view and well-equipped infrastructure.

Following the abandonment, Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals were each awarded one point. That result could end up being significant to the playoff, as the league stage of IPL 2025 comes into its critical last fortnight.

Fans who had come in large numbers were understandably disappointed, especially after witnessing a fiery start by the home team. Social media was filled with posts, with many praising Arya’s attacking innings while also expressing regret over the infrastructural breakdown.

The governing board of the IPL can be expected to review in-house what happened to ensure that such disruptions are not experienced in the future. Stakeholders and franchises have also called for contingency arrangements to be made available for marquee games.

Despite the abrupt conclusion, Punjab Kings’ plan to bat and Priyansh Arya’s match-winning performance had plenty to spare in the way of headlines. With a few games remaining to be played before the playoffs, both sides will now seek to turn their attention to subsequent fixtures with a view to securing qualification places.