BCCI Invites Armed Forces Chiefs to IPL 2025 Final, Dedicates Closing Ceremony to Operation Sindoor Heroes
In a remarkable gesture of national pride and solidarity, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced on Tuesday that it has formally invited the chiefs of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, along with top-ranking officers and soldiers, to attend the grand finale of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.
The final match is scheduled to be held on June 3 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
The BCCI has decided to dedicate the closing ceremony of the prestigious tournament to the brave personnel of the Indian Armed Forces, in recognition of their exemplary service and valiant actions during the recently concluded Operation Sindoor.
This decision reflects the cricketing body’s respect and gratitude towards the armed forces for their unwavering commitment to protecting the nation.
In a statement to the media, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the invitation and outlined the purpose behind the gesture.
We have extended invitations to the Chiefs of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, along with other high-ranking officers and soldiers, to be part of the IPL 2025 final.
This is our way of celebrating and acknowledging the incredible success of Operation Sindoor,” said Saikia in his statement to PTI.
Saikia expressed deep admiration for the armed forces, emphasizing the BCCI’s appreciation for their courage, heroism, and selfless service to the nation.
“The bravery and gallant efforts displayed during Operation Sindoor have not only protected our people but have also inspired the entire country.
As a small token of our gratitude, we have chosen to dedicate the IPL 2025 closing ceremony to honor these heroes,” he added.
He further stated that while cricket is one of India’s greatest passions and enjoys widespread popularity across the nation, the significance of the country’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national security transcends all sporting events.
“There is nothing above the nation. Cricket unites us, but it is the sacrifice of our armed forces that secures the very freedom we enjoy,” Saikia said.
The current Chiefs of the three services who have been invited are:
- General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff
- Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of Naval Staff
- Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, Chief of Air Staff
The tribute holds special relevance following the events of Operation Sindoor, a high-intensity military response launched after the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22.
In that tragic incident, 26 individuals, the majority of them tourists, lost their lives in a brutal attack carried out by terrorists allegedly backed by Pakistan-based groups.
The Indian Armed Forces responded swiftly and decisively with Operation Sindoor, a tactical operation aimed at neutralizing the threat and ensuring civilian safety.
The situation escalated to a brief but intense military standoff between India and Pakistan, reflecting rising regional tensions.
However, the confrontation came to an end following diplomatic backchannel engagements, with India agreeing to a ceasefire in response to Pakistan’s formal request.
The BCCI’s initiative to honor the armed forces during one of the country’s most watched sporting events is likely to resonate deeply with citizens, blending the spirit of sportsmanship with a powerful message of patriotism.
The IPL final, already a highly anticipated event in the cricket calendar, is now set to become a platform for national tribute and unity, with millions expected to tune in both at the stadium and through live broadcasts across the globe.
