Sheikh Nahyan bin Zayed has lauded the efforts made to stage the IPL in the UAE, calling it “one of the best events in world sport”.
The competition starts on Saturday evening when defending champions Mumbai Indians face Chennai Super Kings at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi.
It is going ahead amid robust safety and security measures, in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Sheikh Nahyan, the chairman of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said the competition is a fine addition to the calendar of sport in the capital.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all government entities and parties involved in their tireless efforts and diligence in applying the highest global safety standards to ensure the tournament takes place in a safe and secure environment,” Sheikh Nahyan said.
“The magnificent IPL is one of the best events in world sport. Hosting it in Abu Dhabi is yet another addition to the emirate’s sporting calendar, as is further evidence of Abu Dhabi’s role as a hub for global sporting events.
“It has also showcased our ability to host and deliver elite international events successfully amid challenging circumstances.”
The first match takes place in the capital, starting at 6pm. The competition then moves to Dubai on Sunday, when Delhi Capitals play Kings XI Punjab.
Priyanka Chopra, Anushka Sharma and the teams Bollywood stars support
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Bollywood actor and co-owner of Kolkata Knight Riders Shah Rukh Khan, right, with Priyanka Chopra, left, during an IPL game againsty Kings XI Punjab at The Eden Garden Stadium in Kolkata. AFP -
Kings XI Punjab co-owner Preeti Zinta and actor Ranbir Kapoor enjoying IPL cricket match between Delhi Daredevils and Punjab at the Ferozshah Kotla in New Delhi. Getty -
Anushka Sharma is married to Royal Challengers Bangalore and India captain Virat Kohli. No wonder she supports RCB during the IPL. AFP -
Actress Katrina Kaif has been a supporter of Royal Challengers Bangalore over the years. AFP -
Back when the Delhi franchise was called the Delhi Daredevils, Akshay Kumar, second left, provided the star power. Back then, Pakistan players like Shoaib Malik, second right, and Mohammad Asif, right, used to play in the IPL. AFP -
Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan has been seen at IPL games supporting Mumbai Indians. AFP -
Actor Hrithik Roshan has been one of the big supporters of Mumbai Indians, considering Bollywood is based in the city. AFP -
Mumbai Indians are the IPL team for actor Shahid Kapoor. AFP -
Actress Kareena Kapoor Khan has been seen in, no surprises here, Mumbai Indians jersey. AFP -
Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan has been seen in the Mumbai Indians dugout. AFP -
Actress and producer Deepika Padukone has backed Royal Challengers Bangalore and the Kolkata Knight Riders. AFP -
Sunrisers Hyderabad are the team for south Indian actor Rana Daggubati. AFP
