IPL 2025: Cricket enthusiasts can’t carry 30 items inside Dharamshala HPCA stadium during Punjab Kings match

Dharamshala: As excitement builds for the IPL 2025 matches at the HPCA International Cricket Stadium in Dharamshala, the district administration and the police have ramped up security measures.
Stringent protocols will be in place for the matches scheduled on May 4, 8 and 11, with over 30 items banned from being brought into the stadium.

The authorities have clearly outlined the restrictions on match tickets and signage at entry points. Fans attending the matches, including the much-anticipated clash between Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants on May 4, have been told to strictly adhere to these guidelines.

What not to carry: Over 30 items on ban list

According to HPCA Secretary Avnish Parmar, the BCCI has mandated a list of prohibited items to ensure player safety, crowd control and overall stadium security.

Banned items include pens and pencils, whistles, coins, helmets, cameras, bottles, cans, outside food and beverages, banners, posters, selfie sticks, drones, laptops, power banks, tobacco products, lighters, matches, wooden sticks, sporting balls and even metal or silver bangles, which in past events have gone missing during security checks.

Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the stadium and spectators are advised to avoid carrying any restricted items to avoid entry denials. Food and drinks will be available for purchase inside the stadium premises.

Police deployment, surveillance and crowd control

To maintain order and security, police personnel will be deployed at multiple locations around the stadium on match days.

CCTV cameras have been installed at all major entry and viewing points to enhance real-time monitoring. The security arrangements are aimed at ensuring a smooth, incident-free experience for thousands of fans expected to attend.

Teams arrive in Dharamshala ahead of key clashes

In preparation for the May 4 encounter, Lucknow Super Giants captain Rishabh Pant arrived in Dharamshala on Tuesday along with key support staff.
Coaches Justin Langer, David Miller and Mitchell Marsh reached earlier on Monday evening. The rest of the Lucknow squad is expected to arrive by May 1.

Punjab Kings, who have their previous fixture on April 30, will also reach Dharamshala on May 1. Both teams will practise at the stadium on May 2 from 6 pm to 9 pm, during which they will assess pitch conditions and outfield quality.

Sunil Chadha