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Harbhajan Singh Conspired To Bring IPL 2025 Playoff Matches To Mullanpur - Reports

Akshita Patel

Harbhajan Singh's role in IPL playoffs revealed [Source: @saddapunjab10, @CricCrazyJohns/X.com]Harbhajan Singh's role in IPL playoffs revealed [Source: @saddapunjab10, @CricCrazyJohns/X.com]

The IPL 2025 playoffs are just around the corner, and this year, a new venue is set to host some big matches. According to sources, former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh played a major role in getting 2 crucial playoff games to the new Mullanpur Stadium in Chandigarh.

Earlier this month, the tournament was suspended for 10 days due to the India-Pakistan border conflict. Moreover, after resumption, the authorities have decided to change the venues for the playoffs.

While the shift in venue appeared to be a strategic move, new reports have claimed that a former cricketer influenced IPL officials to reach a consensus on Chandigarh.

Harbhajan Singh Likely Lobbied To Bring Playoff Games To Chandigarh

As per the official schedule released on Tuesday, Qualifier 1 will be held in the Mullanpur stadium in Chandigarh on May 29. This match will be between the top two teams of the league stage. The very next day, May 30, the Eliminator match will also take place at the same venue.

However, reports from ANI say former cricketer Harbhajan Singh used his strong connections and influence to help bring these high-stakes matches to Chandigarh.

The stadium of Mullanpur is a new inaugurated one. Not much cricket has been played here, but Harbhajan’s alleged influence likely played a huge role in Chandigarh getting a chance to host playoff games. 

The other two playoff matches, Qualifier 2 and the final, will be hosted at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

IPL Modifies Cut-Off Time To Avoid Washouts

In a significant decision, IPL 2025 has introduced a 2-hour rain buffer to all 9 remaining league matches so that they don't get washed out. With the weather playing havoc, evening matches can now be played until 11:56 PM IST and day matches until 7:56 PM. 

This follows several rain-hit games and increasing pressure to save playoff chances. For once, the IPL is providing fans and teams with a fighting chance against rain gods.