Guwahati is all set to host its first-ever Indian Premier League (IPL) match between Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings at the ACA Stadium, Barsapara today, April 5.
The match is scheduled to start at 7.30 pm, with the gates opening at 5 pm, the Assam Cricket Association (ACA) informed on Tuesday.
The association informed that a musical and dance program at 05:30 pm before the start of the match will be held. During the innings break, spectators will be treated to an attractive laser show. That apart, during the match there will be pyrotechnics, comet and fireworks show to make the match more lively and attractive.
Alongside the entrance, larger than life images of the Royals’ players hanging on the fences of the practice pitches give a feel that the stadium has fully been converted into a den of the Royals. To add to the feel, all the images and bill boards are primarily in pink, the official colour of the home team’s jersey.
Ringing in the spirits of Bohag Bihu, some of the posters depicting the Royals’ official song, also includes the indigenous musical instruments Dhol and Pepa (made with the horn of a buffalo). Besides all the makeovers, the fear of a wash out looms over the matches due to pre-monsoon showers over the past week or so.
Meanwhile, the Guwahati Police have made parking arrangements in the adjoining areas of the stadium to ensure the smooth conduct of the match. However, car pass holders will be allowed to enter the Stadium Premises. The ACA has also arranged for food and drinking water facilities in and around the stadium for the convenience of the spectators.
The ACA office bearers have urged the public to extend their support to ensure the successful conduct of the match. The association hopes that the success of this match will pave the way for more IPL matches to be held in the city in the future.
This marks an exciting moment for cricket enthusiasts in Guwahati as the city is all geared up to host its first-ever IPL match. The match promises to be an enthralling experience for both the players and spectators alike.
