Unlike a gala opening ceremony like the previous years in the Indian Premier League (IPL), military bands will perform at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai ahead of the opening clash between Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore. The match will be played on 23rd March from 8 pm.
The officials from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have promised to pay Rs 20 crores to the welfare of the Indian Armed forces in the wake of Pulwama terror attack. As many as 44 CRPF jawans were killed during the terror attack which was apparently carried out by a Pakistan based terror group.
As per reports, it is learnt that some of the representatives from the Indian Armed Forces have been invited for the opening match of the competition. The match will also be attended by 3 members of the Committee of Administrators.
Unlike in the previous years, there won’t be an elaborate opening ceremony. Efforts have been made to ensure that all the 8 captains in the tournament participate in the programme.
“Members of the CoA and the players will be present during the programme,” an official said. He, however, remained non-committal on whether, Dhoni – who is a Lt. Colonel of the Territorial Army – will don a role. “The entire programme is an effort to pay our homage to the martyrs,” he said.
Team India paid tribute to the Indian jawans and the armed forces when they wore camouflage caps during the 3rd ODI against Australia in Ranchi,. In the coming years, we might see more cricketers and cricket matches being dedicated to the welfare of the armed Indian forces.
This edition of the Indian Premier League will serve as a preparatory tournament for the players who is expected to be part of the World Cup squad for their respective countries. Though IPL performances don’t qualify as a benchmark for breaking into the national team, selectors will keep a close look at the players who are on the radar of getting selected in the World Cup.