In a major development ahead of the IPL 2025 playoffs, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to shift the venue of the tournament’s final from Kolkata to a new, undisclosed location. Additionally, Mullanpur, located in Punjab, has been selected to host two of the four playoff matches, marking a significant moment for the city’s cricketing future.
The move has come as a surprise to fans, particularly those in Kolkata who were eagerly awaiting the chance to witness the final showdown at the iconic Eden Gardens. The stadium, known for its passionate cricket supporters and rich history, has previously hosted several IPL finals and high-stakes matches. The exclusion of Kolkata from this year’s final has led to a wave of disappointment across the city, with fans expressing their discontent on social media.
While the BCCI has not provided a detailed explanation, sources suggest logistical concerns, pitch readiness, and weather forecasts could have influenced the decision. Another theory is the desire to expand the reach of IPL to new and emerging cricket venues such as Mullanpur, giving them a chance to host major fixtures.
Mullanpur’s new international cricket stadium, part of the greater Mohali region, has been steadily gaining attention for its modern facilities and growing fan base. Hosting two IPL playoff matches is a significant step forward, potentially boosting the region’s profile as a cricket destination and promoting the game’s popularity in northern India.
BCCI officials confirmed that the Qualifier 1 and Eliminator will take place in Mullanpur, while the Qualifier 2 and the Final will be hosted in a different city, yet to be officially announced. The matches in Mullanpur are expected to bring in a large crowd, as excitement builds around hosting teams competing for a place in the final.
This decision has sparked mixed reactions from the cricketing community. While fans in Punjab are thrilled at the opportunity, Kolkata supporters and stakeholders are questioning the rationale behind the change. Several cricket experts have pointed out that Eden Gardens offers a unique atmosphere that’s hard to replicate, especially for high-pressure matches.
Despite the disappointment, officials from the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) have expressed their continued support for the IPL and hope to host future marquee events. CAB representatives also mentioned that they had fulfilled all required preparations for hosting the final and were surprised by the sudden change.
The IPL 2025 playoffs are set to be tightly contested, and the shift in venues adds an unexpected twist to the final stages of the tournament. As teams gear up for the knockout rounds, all eyes will be on Mullanpur to deliver a world-class cricketing experience and showcase its capability as a premium venue.
The focus now turns to how the teams adapt to the new venues and how the fans respond to the reshuffled playoff schedule in this high-stakes season of IPL 2025.
