DLF IPL to take the game into a new era: Modi

Mumbai, Mar 13 (UNI) DLF Indian Premier League (IPL) Commissioner and Chairman Lalit Modi today averred that the sport stands on the threshold of a new era.

Speaking at the launch of the Kolkata Knight Riders here Mr Modi said with this league, we not only have the best platform for showcasing the game in India, but also at the same time we have a world stage for many a young aspiring Indian youth.

With the IPL we have on our hands a cricket league, which will not only significantly benefit the cricketing infrastructure of our country in the long run, but also help us to develop the game at the grassroot level.

Speaking about the huge amount of monies being involved, Mr Modi said, ''Yes, a lot has also been said about the monies involved, but when the dust will settle, I am certain people will see the DLF Indian Premier League for what it truly is - a true global platform that will take Indian and indeed world cricket into the next millennia.'' He also praised Shah Rukh Khan, the owner of the Kolkata Knight Riders, and Sourav Ganguly, the captain of the team, saying it is good to see Indian icons like Shah Rukh Khan come forward and promote a sport like cricket. In Shah Rukh Khan and Sourav Ganguly, the Kolkata Knight Riders have two legendary icons, both of whom have achieved the ultimate in their respective careers through sheer hard work and perseverance.

Mr Modi also had some advice for Shah Rukh Khan, ''When the curtains rise and the cricket loving hordes shout action on April 18, be ready for one of the greatest emotional roller coaster rides of your life. The DLF Indian Premier League will be unlike any Bollywood Blockbuster you have been a part of with a whole lot of action, tonnes of emotions and a whole lot of drama (God willing all only on the field)! But the love of a billion people will add to your exhilaration and belief in what this game has to offer.'' UNI GS NM RL RS1918