IPL to start from tonight

The 17th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is commencing today. The tournament will kick off with a match between Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore. IPL symbolizes a unique thrill for the viewers. This domestic T20 tournament of India has created a place for itself, unlike any other T20 leagues. While other T20 leagues have their own appeal, IPL surpasses them in many aspects.

With the impending Lok Sabha elections in India, IPL will be conducted in two phases. The schedule for the first phase matches has been announced so far. The rest might be scheduled after the Lok Sabha elections. IPL will capture the attention of the cricketing world before the T20 World Cup.

Where the world's cricketing stars come, play, and showcase their talents, this time is no exception. The 2024 IPL is expected to witness intense battles between batsmen, strategic bowling, and exceptional fielding. Those in outstanding form will attract attention towards the 20-over World Cup.

Broadcasters and commentators' panels have already been announced for the upcoming IPL season. Alongside English, Hindi commentary will also be available. Not only that, but there will also be the presence of several other Indian languages. The commentator panel will feature prominent foreign names as well as familiar faces from India.

There are no major new rules in this year's IPL. However, a rule allowing bowlers to bowl two bouncers has been introduced. Previously, they could only bowl one bouncer per over. Each team will announce their playing eleven after the toss. There's a provision for five additional substitute players, known as the 'Impact Player Rule', who can be substituted during the match. They must be Indian nationals. If a guest player is substituted, then four foreigners can be used from the start. Wide and no-ball reviews will also be in place.

Some new updates have been added to this IPL. Gujarat Titans' captain Hardik Pandya has returned to Mumbai Indians. Not only that, he has been appointed as the captain of Mumbai. Mahendra Singh Dhoni has stepped down from the captaincy of Chennai Super Kings. This IPL might be Dhoni's last tournament. Ruturaj Gaikwad has taken over as the new captain.

Australian left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc has joined Kolkata Knight Riders as the most expensive player. Kolkata acquired him for a record $2.3 million. Rishabh Pant is returning as the captain of Delhi Capitals after a long injury.

Mumbai and Chennai; both teams have won the IPL trophy 5 times each. Their aim now is towards the sixth trophy. Today, Friday, at 8:30 PM Bangladesh time, Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore will face off in the opening match.