Ever since the inception of a revolutionary concept called I.P.L. which loosely translates to Indian Premier League. Its essence permits International cricketers of repute to represent local Indian franchisees which creates a perfect mix. It's a perfect platform for those who aspire to represent India to show their mettle. Truly, IPL has come a long way ever since its inaugural first season.
To be honest, the format of IPL took the cricketing world by storm! It actually succeeded in throwing up promising talent for not just India but all cricket playing nations. Being the latest baby of cricket, T-20 cricket has been taken to the next level. It's a highly entertaining and at the same time, it provides an ideal platform for advertisers to showcase their brands in this cricket savvy nation.
2011 marks the 4th birthday of IPL. It has turned out to be bigger and better than the previous year. This year, the viewership is expected to hit the sky since Team India has become World Champions barely a couple of weeks back. The euphoria is understandably palpable. Another reason being the introduction of latest inductees in the IPL - Pune Warriors and Kochi Tuskers Kerala.
Apart from that, this year's auction meant that there are sweeping changes in the dynamics of the team from the previous years. For instance, a glaring example of Delhi Daredevils has seen a sea of change. As their skipper, Virender Sehwag, is the only constant in their team. It meant 10 new faces will feature in their side. Similarly, Kings 11 Punjab will be without their iconic player, Yuvraj Singh who was a revelation in the recently concluded world cup. He will be definitely missed by Preity Zinta's franchisee.
It will be difficult for viewers to adjust to the new faces as the very same faces were a part of opposition just a year back. Loyalties of those players who were bought at the auction has shifted. The newcomers Pune Warrior looks strong on paper and the way they have played their first 2 matches. And the same goes for Kochi Tuskers Kerala who defeated one of the hot favourites, Mumbai Indians at their own den yesterday! It has created tremendous interest in these two franchisees already.
This is just a start. And 20-20 is not for a faint hearted. So IPL juggernaut is ready to roll in 2011!
As always, I will always be Mumbai Indians loyalist for two reasons - one being that I am a born Mumbaikar and other one is no rocket science either. Mumbai Indians is being led by the God of Batting, Sachin R. Tendulkar himself! It's a sheer privilege to have been able to watch the Living Legend of world cricket in action for the past 21 years. He is simply phenomenal. His hundred was simply sublime although it came in a losing cause. My gut feel says that this IPL year belongs to the Master! May it turned out that way in the end.
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