There was a collective sigh of relief as the 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) concluded smoothly, overcoming threats posed by both rain and rising geopolitical tensions. Behind the scenes, it was strategic planning and science-based decisions that ensured the tournament reached its finale without a hitch.

At a crucial IPL Governing Council (GC) meeting on May 20, BCCI officials took on the role of weather analysts. The main agenda: determining suitable venues for the playoff matches — Qualifier 1, the Eliminator, Qualifier 2, and the final — while factoring in the week-long pause due to escalating border tensions.

Originally, Hyderabad and Kolkata were selected to host the playoffs. However, shifting political and meteorological conditions forced a reassessment. The BCCI came prepared, armed with weather data for all potential IPL venues. Kolkata, set to host the final, had a 65% chance of rainfall, while Ahmedabad had only a 3% risk. Acting on this scientific forecast, the BCCI moved the final to Ahmedabad.

The change sparked political speculation, but BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia clarified on June 4 that the decision was entirely science-driven. “The decision was never political. We banked on scientific material and inputs,” he told Cricbuzz.

In a twist of fate, heavy rain struck Kolkata on the night of the final, while Ahmedabad experienced only light afternoon drizzle, causing no disruption to the title clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings.

Qualifier 2, played on June 1, did face a two-hour delay — ironically, while Kolkata had clear skies — but the match between Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings proceeded without any loss of overs. Ultimately, the BCCI’s proactive approach helped conclude IPL 2025 seamlessly, validating their reliance on data over assumptions.