New Delhi: 

The BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) will pay tribute to Operation Sindoor of the Indian armed forces during its closing ceremony of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, and has invited all three service chiefs to attend the IPL final, officials said.

India's apex cricket body's decision follows the exceptional valour and courage showcased by our armed forces while successfully carrying out Operation Sindoor.

He lauded the "heroic efforts under Operation Sindoor" which protected and inspired the nation. "As a tribute, we have decided to dedicate the closing ceremony to the armed forces and honor our heroes. While cricket remains a national passion, there is nothing greater than the nation and its sovereignty, integrity, and security of our country," Saikia said.

"We have extended an invitation to all Indian Armed Forces chiefs, top-ranked officers and soldiers for the IPL final in Ahmedabad to celebrate the success of Operation Sindoor," BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia told PTI on Tuesday. Saikia said that the BCCI salutes the "bravery, courage, and selfless service" of the country's armed forces.

The retaliatory action led to a brief military showdown between the two arch foes before India agreed to halt its operations on Pakistan's request for a cease fire.

While General Upendra Dwivedi is the Chief of Army Staff, Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi is the Naval Chief. Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh is the Chief of Air Staff. Operation Sindoor was triggered by the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 in which 26 peopls, mostly tourists, were gunned down by Pakistan-backed terrorists.

"It's a gracious gesture by the BCCI to invite the three service chiefs as the armed forces have done the country proud during Operation Sindoor. We are forever indebted to our forces for keeping us safe," former BCCI acting president C K Khanna said reacting to the Board's decision.

The board has been consistently paying tribute to the Indian armed forces since the restart of the IPL through large banners in all matches. Four teams - Punjab Kings, Gujarat Titans, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Mumbai Indians, have qualified for the playoffs of the IPL 2025. While PBKS have secured a spot in the top two for them, MI is likely to conclude the league stage at third or fourth position in the points table. (With PTI inputs)

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