IPL Resumes with Punjab, Gujarat Securing Playoffs After Hiatus

The Indian Premier League (IPL) resumed after a week-long pause due to the India-Pakistan conflict, with Punjab Kings and Gujarat Titans securing crucial wins to advance to the playoffs. Gujarat Titans dominated Delhi Capitals, led by unbeaten centuries from Sai Sudharsan (108) and Shubman Gill (93), reclaiming first place in the standings, while Punjab Kings defeated Rajasthan Royals by 10 runs, powered by Nehal Wadhera’s aggressive 70 off 37 balls and consistent batting from Shashank Singh. The tournament's resumption followed a ceasefire, and the IPL final has been rescheduled to June 3. Punjab’s victory featured key contributions from Harpreet Brar, who took 3-22 to stifle Rajasthan’s chase, despite half-centuries from Yashasvi Jaisal and Dhruv Jurel. With these results, Punjab Kings, Gujarat Titans, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru have secured playoff spots, leaving Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, and Lucknow Super Giants competing for the final berth. The resumption at Delhi’s Feroz Shah Kotla and Jaipur’s Sawai Mansingh Stadium highlighted strong individual performances and strategic gameplay amid a tense geopolitical backdrop.