Modi to appeal verdict in Cairns case

MUMBAI: Former Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Lalit Modi will be appealing against the High Court of London?s verdict in the libel case filed against him by ex-New Zealand captain Chris Cairns.

Modi has to lodge papers by 20 April. Modi lost a libel case to Cairns and was asked to pay 90,000 pounds in damages to the all-rounder.

Cairns had sued Modi over a tweet in which the latter accused the New Zealander of being involved in match-fixing during the rebel Indian Cricket League (ICL) in 2008.

Meanwhile, Modi criticised the opening ceremony of the IPL held last night that had the likes of Katy Perry performing. He tweeted: "So according to IPL fans ? nearly 100% have Tweeted they would have preferred Pre Game Opening Ceremony rather than an opening like today. Can?t bear to watch it anymore ? as on TV it looks appalling. Was really looking forward to seeing something well presented. I am sure the Ratings will show."