Alyssa Healy Shares Frightening Experience Amid India-Pakistan Tensions
Healy's account provides a unique perspective on the impact of geopolitical tensions on sports, and her decision to wait for government advice before returning to India underscores the importance of prioritizing safety and security.
Australian cricketer Alyssa Healy and her husband Mitchell Starc rushed back to Australia from India due to renewed fighting with Pakistan, which led to the suspension of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Pakistan Super League (PSL).
The decision to return to India for the IPL or focus on the World Test Championship (WTC) final in London is now looming for Australian players, with Cricket Australia supporting players in their individual decisions. Alyssa Healy expressed hesitation about returning to India, citing the ongoing conflict and the need for government advice to ensure safety.
Healy shared her account of the chaos that unfolded during the IPL 2025 in Dharamsala, India, amidst rising tensions between India and Pakistan. The IPL game between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was suspended on May 8 due to a sudden power outage, and the tournament was later suspended indefinitely. Healy described the scene as "surreal" and recalled the players and their families being rushed into a holding room.
The group was later evacuated via a special train, with Healy noting that the journey was "a little bit terrifying" due to the presence of surface-to-air missile sites along the route. The IPL resumed on May 17 after a ceasefire agreement was reached between India and Pakistan. Healy also shared her experience of the IPL match between Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings being abandoned in Dharamsala due to security concerns.
The Australian cricket team will announce its WTC squad on Tuesday, and players will have to make a decision about their participation in the IPL or the WTC final. Alyssa Healy's experience highlights the challenges and risks faced by cricketers during times of conflict and tension.