MPL 2016 off to dazzling start as Azhar spreads cricket fever in Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Dec 17: All roads led to Dr B R Ambedkar stadium at Panambur, Mangaluru, on Saturday evening as a grand opening ceremony marked the commencement of the Mangalore Premiere League - 2016.

Cricket fans of Mangaluru and surrounding areas were in for a visual treat at the spectacular Inauguration of the third edition of the MPL which saw a delightful medley of cricket, entertainment and cultural extravaganza.

It was legendarily cricketer and former Indian captain Mohammed Azharuddin who formally inaugurated the biggest cricket carnival of coastal Karnataka.

Greeting the crowd in Tulu language, Namaskara Kudla, Mr Azaharuddin revived many memories of the year 1992 when he first showed his skills as a cricketer in this coastal city.

Highlighting the need for a cricket stadium in the coastal city, Azharuddin reminded the crowd about how the game evokes passions in a cricket crazy nation.

Advising all players to play the game in its true spirit, Azharuddin also lauded the efforts put up by the ground staff and the curator to provide a good outfield and a sporting wicket for the encounters to follow.

Praising the sponsors and the organizers behind the league, Azharuddin hoped that MPL will truly claim its place in the list of cricketing events that cricketers and cricket lovers would want to be a part of.

Post the brief inaugural speeches by guests and sponsors and Azharuddin administering the oath to the 12 participating teams, dazzling fireworks lit up the evening sky.

LED lights show, Russian fire stunts and sky lanterns enthralled spectators. This was followed by an exhibition match featuring Azharuddin XI and Roaring Tigers XI led by actor Arjun Kapikad.

Teams vying for the prestigious trophy are Redhawks Kudla, Team Elegant Moodbidri, Kankanady Knight Riders, Karavali Warriors Panambur, Karkala Gladiators, President Sixers Kundapura, Maestro Titans, Spark Eveners Bolar, coastaldigest.com, Surathkal Strikers, United Ullal and Udupi Tigers.

Also Read: Coastalwood XI win MPL exhibition match; Azharuddin wins hearts

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