IPL 2010: Curtain Raiser

Friday, March 12, 2010


IPL 2010: Curtain Raiser
There’s a spring in the step of the nation while the world looks towards India with an unbridled interest. Conversations in local trains and suburban malls, conference rooms and pubs, college corridors and public parks all gravitate towards the inevitable question – who’ll win the IPL this year? IPL returns home to an unprecedented welcome after a brief South African sojourn. And players are as happy as fans to be back to their rightful home.
The IPL seemed to have travelled instantly from the living rooms to the hearts of the Indian public in its opening season itself. Right from Brendon McCullum’s sensational 153* in the first match of the first ever IPL, the world knew history was being created. Neither has McCullum’s record, nor the appeal, reach and attraction generated by the league been bettered. When the Deccan Chargers launched a spirited and successful quest for the trophy in 2009, South Africa became a home away from home for the franchises and fans. With games back in India this season, it’s time to offer something really special to spectators – and whether it is the stadium experience, television or online coverage, spectators are in for an unparalleled experience.
But at the heart of all the action, as always, is the impeccable standard of cricketing talent on display. Each day of the tournament promises a high quality face-off. So we’re treated to Sachin Tendulkar returning to haunt Shane Warne while the fearless Kieron Pollard meets his match in the lightening quick Kemar Roach. Sehwag prepares to charge Shaun Tait while Zaheer Khan looks to test the unflappable Dhoni. With 14 games per side – seven at home and seven away – the opportunities are immense. With Dharamsala, Ahmedabad and Cuttack offering their venues to the league for the first time, more spectators can join the party and enjoy games up close and live.
In its third year, the IPL has broadened its horizons not just on the cricketing, entertainment and hospitality fronts, but also in the realm of global responsibility. The league has tied up with the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) in a drive to spread the green message. Sachin Tendulkar has been appointed the Goodwill Ambassador byUNEP. Before every match of the competition, Sachin will share a “green tip” with fans which can be viewed on IPLT20.com.
IPL has also joined hands with Room to Read, a pioneering organisation whose mission it is to transform the lives of millions of children by addressing literacy and gender equality in education.
To get the iconic tournament’s 2010 edition to an unforgettable start, a host of India and international acts have been lined up at the DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai. From Deepika Padukone to Akon and from laser shows to acrobatics – it’s a mega spectacle guaranteed to inspire awe, admiration and complete involvement. Much like the 60 games lined up for viewers. It’s time to buckle up, get into the jersey of your favourite team and get into the IPL spirit. Buy tickets NOW and you could be cheering your heroes live in their arena. See you at the games!  

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