5 Things to look forward to in IPL 2016

The ninth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to take Indian cricket by storm. And not for the first time. While excitement has always been a major feature of the IPL, there is something special about this edition. New players, new venues and not to forget, new commentators are expected to add to the fabric of the IPL. With the excitement and the uproar already in the air, we take a look at five things to look forward to in the upcoming IPL 2016.

1. Two new teams:

For the first time in IPL history, we will be without two of perhaps the most prolific teams. Following a Supreme Court ruling, the Chennai Super Kings and the Rajasthan Royals were suspended. However, in their place two new and exciting franchises have emerged. It seems as though the split of the remains of the Chennai Super Kings has thus been divided into the Rising Pune Supergiants and the Gujarat Lions. Although they are making their debuts in the IPL, these two sides boast of players who have featured rather prominently in the IPL. Therefore, it remains to be seen the exact impact both these sides bring in the context of the IPL.

2. The LED stumps:

Although it is not as much of a tectonic shift as the new franchises, the LED stumps and bails are a novelty in cricket. For all those who wanted to see fireworks on the field of play, this is the closest they would get to witnessing the feat. The use of LED stumps was first used internationally in the World T20, wherein it gained an abundant popularity. Therefore, in a bid to provide the best entertainment to the passionate supporters, LED stumps will be in play for all the matches of the IPL.

3. Spectator involvement:

As mentioned earlier, one of the main aspects of the IPL is to provide as much entertainment as possible. While drummers, action sequences, cheer girls and music has done wonders in involving the spectators, IPL chairman Rajiv Shukla has said that the management is planning something special. Shukla stated that the spectators would be given placards to involve them in decisions concerning the third umpire. This feat is yet to be witnessed anywhere in the world.

4. The TV anchors:

Let’s be honest. Every red-blooded person watches the pre and post show. However, there can only be two reasons why someone watches these shows. One would be if he or she is a massive cricket fan and wants to listen to the analysis. Or the second, and more likely, to ogle at the stunning TV anchors. Especially the new anchors Pallavi Sharad and Rochelle Rao. And yes, that doesn’t include the funny Danny Morrison unless he is a cheerleader.

They are definitely the hot favorites – Top 5 Hot Female Anchors in Cricket Shows

5. Dwayne Bravo doing the ‘Champion’ dance in the opening ceremony

I have literally said this a million times. The ‘Champion’ dance has become a part of Indian cricket folklore. And a prominent one at that. However, things got a bit more interesting when Rajeev Shukla announced that Dwayne Bravo would be making a surprise appearance at the opening ceremony. And better yet, he will be doing the champion dance.