As the Indian Premier League stares at a possible pause due to the escalating tension between India and Pakistan, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is exploring back-up plans.

After the game between Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings was called off in Dharamshala after just 10 overs of play on Thursday, the BCCI office-bearers got into a huddle to discuss the future of the tournament.

While a formal decision is likely by Friday afternoon, Sportstar understands that the Board officials have sought the union government’s advice and are awaiting their response before finalising a decision.

“We are looking at all possible options. At the moment, the safety of the players and all the stakeholders remains our top priority,” a Board official said.

With the tension escalating between the neighbouring nations over the last few days, the franchises have appraised the overseas players and the respective boards about the situation, and have also made it clear that their travel would be facilitated should they wish to leave.

While pausing the league for now remains one of the options, the Board is also open to revising the schedule and changing the venues depending on the situation.

: PBKS vs MI match on May 11 shifted from Dharamsala to Ahmedabad

But as vice-president Rajeev Shukla suggested, the Board’s primary job at the moment is to ensure both Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings are taken out of Dharamshala safely in a ‘special train’ from the nearest railway station.

The franchises have also kept the communication lines open with the BCCI.

In 2021, the BCCI had to postpone the IPL after a bio-bubble breach, and the second phase of the tournament was held in the UAE after a few months.

However, things are different this time, as finding a window later in the year could be tricky due to international commitments. “We are looking at all the scenarios. It’s a fast-changing situation and we will have to take a collective decision,” a Board source said.

There are doubts over Friday’s match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Lucknow Super Giants in Lucknow.