The ninth edition of Indian Premier League (IPL) got off to a colourful start with a star-studded and glittering opening ceremony at the National Sports Club of India (NSCI) on Friday.
With a strong number of cricketers from across the globe, stars from the entertainment sector and other dignitaries filling the stands, the 120-minute plus programme saw the country’s Twenty20 tournament take off in style.
The gala started when Bollywood actress and Sri Lankan beauty Jacqueline Fernandez danced to the tunes of some famous numbers.
The performance was followed by former India cricketer Ravi Shastri inviting all captains of eight franchises on the stage to take the MCC’s Spirit of Cricket pledge. All captains signed the pledge to maintain spirit of the game throughout the tournament.
IPL chairman Rajiv Shukla subsequently welcomed all the audience for the ninth edition of the competition.
“On behalf of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) I would like to welcome all for the IPL opening ceremony. IPL 9 will be better and best compared to other editions. IPL is not about just entertainment… it is about cricket all the way. Like the league has brought up young talents, this year will also do so. We will do all is needed to help the Maharashtra farmers and do everything in their interest,” he said.
Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif then danced to the tunes of her famous numbers followed by a performance by West Indies star all-rounder Dwayne Bravo, who danced and sang his song “Champion”.
Yo Yo Honey Singh, star actor Ranveer Singh also performed before the last performance of the night by American singer Chris Brown, who sang his heart out to make the evening a memorable one for the large number of fans and crowd gathered at the venue and watching it around the world.
