© Twitter (@NiteshP78417761)
In the electrifying build-up to the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, cricket fans worldwide were treated to a spectacular sight as the captains of all Ten franchises, alongside Punjab Kings’ vice-captain Jitesh Sharma, came together to pose with the coveted trophy. The iconic photograph captures the essence of anticipation and excitement that surrounds one of the most prestigious cricket tournaments in the world.
Among the luminaries present were Ruturaj Gaikwad (Chennai Super Kings), Faf Du Plessis (Royal Challengers Bangalore), Hardik Pandya (Mumbai Indians), Rishabh Pant (Delhi Capitals), KL Rahul (Lucknow Super Giants), Shubman Gill (Gujarat Titans), Shreyas Iyer (Kolkata Knight Riders), Pat Cummins (SunRisers Hyderabad), Sanju Samson (Rajasthan Royals), and Jitesh (Punjab Kings).
However, Punjab Kings skipper Shikhar Dhawan’s absence due to a minor illness was noted, though his team’s vice-captain filled in admirably for the photograph session.
As anticipation reaches a fever pitch, IPL fans can mark their calendars. The initial schedule has been unveiled until April 7, taking into consideration the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. Moreover, cricket enthusiasts are in for a treat with the announcement of four double-headers within this timeframe, promising action-packed weekends.
The excitement kicks off on March 22, when defending champions MS Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings will face Royal Challengers Bangalore in a South Indian derby at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium.
The opening weekend promises a clash of titans as the IPL 2022 winners Gujarat Titans take on the formidable Mumbai Indians at Ahmedabad, while the Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants embark on their campaigns in Jaipur.
Moving forward, fans can look forward to Delhi Capitals hosting matches at Vizag on March 31 and April 3 against Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders, respectively. Furthermore, history will be made with the first-ever double-header on March 23, featuring Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals squaring off in Mohali, while Kolkata Knight Riders commence their campaign in Kolkata.
With such a star-studded lineup and thrilling fixtures in store, IPL 2024 promises to be yet another unforgettable chapter in the history of cricket’s premier T20 extravaganza. So mark your calendars, grab your jerseys, and get ready to witness cricketing brilliance like never before!
