Mumbai: The much-awaited skyfair.news 2023 Lanka Premier League (LPL) took off on Sunday evening amidst a glamorous opening ceremony at the iconic R. Premadasa Stadium. The ceremony witnessed a mix of high-octane music, Srilankan culture, dance, firework and fanfare ahead of the faceoff between Colombo Strikers and Jaffna Kingsheld to mark the beginning of the 22 days long league.
The stadium came alive with the breathtaking display of dancing stunts, 25 drummers energetically welcoming everyone in traditional Srilankan outfit, followed by the enchanting voice of Yohani Diloka de Silva, who also happens to be the brand ambassador for the league. The global YouTube sensation mesmerised the eagerly awaiting audience with her songs. As the evening progressed, the opening ceremony unfolded to present a cocktail of light, action, music and beyond.
Expressing enthusiasm for the tournament and the sport’s growth in Sri Lanka, chief guest, Sri Lankan Cricket (SLC) president Shammi Silva, graced the occasion, along with Miss World Tourism, Nguyen Giang Tien of Vietnam as well as other local celebrities who ensured the evening was nothing short of electric.
“The Lanka Premier League not only celebrates the remarkable talent of our nation but also showcases the unifying power cricket has. As we embark on this journey for the fourth time, we look forward to a gripping display of skill, passion, and camaraderie off the field as well as a competitive brand of cricket on the field. I extend my best wishes to all the participating teams, coaches, and supporters as well as the fans,” commented Sri Lankan Cricket president Shammi Silva.
"It is heartening to see how the Lanka Premier League has once again brought together the best cricketers in the World to enthrall the cricket fans all over the World. LPL has provided a great platform to a lot of youngsters over the last few years and I am sure that we will see a lot of budding talent coming through in the next three weeks," said IPG Group (the official rights holder of LPL) founder and CEO Anil Mohan Sankhdhar.
The participating teams, includes Colombo Strikers led by Niroshan Dickwella, Dambulla Aura captained by Kusal Mendis, Galle Titans led by Dasun Shanaka, B-Love Kandy captained by Wanindu Hasaranga, and defending champions Jaffna Kings led by veteran Sri Lankan allrounder Thisara Perera, also took part in the ceremony.
The other highlight of the ceremony was the grand unveiling of the prestigious LPL trophy. Amidst much anticipation and excitement, the chief guest and distinguished delegates proudly inaugurated the gleaming trophy for the fourth edition of LPL.
Famous Sri Lankan singers Chithral Sompala and Umara Sinhawansa combined beautifully to deliver a soulful rendition of the National anthem followed by an energetic dance performance to the official theme song as the opening ceremony drew curtains and the fourth edition kicked off.
