The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday, 27 May 2025, announced that it has issued official invitations to the heads of India's Army, Navy, and Air Force for the Indian Premier League (IPL) final on 3 June in Ahmedabad.
The closing function of the mega cricket extravaganza will salute the armed forces for their "heroic efforts" in the recent Operation Sindoor.
At a media conference, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia announced,
"We have invited all the Indian Armed Forces chiefs senior-most officers, and troops to the IPL final in Ahmedabad to commemorate the success of Operation Sindoor," he told PTI.
Mr. Saikia highlighted the cricket board's profound admiration and gratitude towards the Indian army, calling their valor and commitment inspirational.
He praised the courageous actions taken by the personnel during Operation Sindoor, describing them as key to the defense of the country and boosting national morale.
"In appreciation, we have resolved to hold the closing ceremony in honor of the armed forces and salute our heroes. Although cricket is a national passion, there is no higher than the nation and sovereignty, integrity, and security of our country," he added.
The present Indian armed forces chiefs are General Upendra Dwivedi (Army), Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi (Navy), and Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh (Air Force).
Operation Sindoor was initiated following the horrific April 22 terror strike in Pahalgam that killed 26 people, the majority of them tourists. The attack, carried out by Pakistan-supported militants, invited immediate military action by Indian troops. The operation ended with a Pakistani appeal for a ceasefire after a period of cross-border tension that was short but hot.
The BCCI’s initiative to honor the military at one of India’s most celebrated sporting events aligns with a broader national sentiment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently described Operation Sindoor as more than a military campaign, calling it a symbol of a "changing India" committed to resolute action against terrorism.
Read also| SKY Sets New MI Record, Overtakes Tendulkar's 15-Year-Old IPL Milestone
