IPL 2018 to have a single grand opening ceremony

Though the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is still three months away, the frenzy surrounding it has begun and the auctions are not too far away. The finalized dates for the tournament have also been revealed with Mumbai is set to host the inauguration and final matches of IPL 2018.

However, there will be a change in the ceremonial patterns this time around. Unlike last year which saw 8 IPL opening ceremonies held in all the respective home venues of the franchises, this year, there will just one opening ceremony taking place in Mumbai on April 6.

The Governing Council have allocated a budget of INR 50 crores in comparison to the INR 30 crores laid out for the last edition which was divided between the eight centres, for what promises to be a grand opening ceremony on April 6. The budget this year has been increased to add the star element to it.

The IPL opening ceremony has seen several international pop icons mark their presence and it has on all occasions turned it into an extravagant affair. From the likes of Katy Perry and Lady Gaga to rock legend Bryan Adams also Pitbull and Akon, the IPL opening ceremony has been a glitzy affair.

A BCCI official privy to the developments told Indian Express, “The IPL GC has taken the decision to increase the IPL budget to INR 50 crores. The BCCI felt in order to make it grand we will be needing stars from around the world. And if you want world stars to perform then you need the necessary budget. The Board has decided to do away with having an opening ceremony in each of the eight venues and have a grand event this time around.”

New venue to make IPL debut

The upcoming season will also see the return of two franchises back to the fray- Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR), who will be making a comeback after serving a 2-year ban.

Apart from that, Lucknow will be making its debut as a host for the Indian domestic T20 league this year. Ekana Cricket Stadium of Lucknow is likely to become the second venue for Delhi Daredevils franchise. The venue has earlier hosted several domestic tournaments.

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