With the likes of Afridi in the SLPL, this series is sure to be very entertaining! PHOTO: REUTERS/FILE

After the huge success of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), it’s time for Sri Lanka to set the stage for the clash of the titans of the cricketing world – and, of course, to make some money too! With the opening ceremony of the Sri Lankan Premier League (SLPL) scheduled for tomorrow, the cricketing world has been taken by frenzy. The bests of the bests will be competing for glory in Colombo and Kandy starting tomorrow. 

The 20-day long event, scheduled from August 11 to the 31st, will be played at the Pallekele International cricket stadium, Kandy, and R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. Seven teams will be competing in the event. These teams include both local as well as international players, mostly comprising Pakistanis and Australian players. Fourteen Pakistani players, including the likes of Shahid Afridi, Imran Nazir, Umar Akmal and Umar Gul, will be providing spectators with tremendous entertainment.

The organisers have promised a spectacular opening ceremony at the indoor Sugathadasa Stadium on August 10, one day before the on-field action begins.  A performance by Maxi Priest, the British reggae vocalist of Jamaican descent will be the highlight. The ceremony will be hosted by Pakistani commentator Ramiz Raja.

The opening match will be played between Nagenahira Nagas and Ruhuna Royals on Saturday, August 11. Carlton Sports Network will be broadcasting the matches live in Sri Lanka, whereas ESPN 3 will be showing them in the US, UK and the Caribbean. Geo Super will be telecasting the matches live for its viewers in Pakistan.

I’m hoping that Pakistan soon joins the club of Premier League holders. Our nation is craving a Pakistan Premier League! But it seems like there is time till that. For now, gear up and get set for an event that promises to be one of its kind! SLPL will be a complete package of entertainment, excitement, nail-biting competitions and, of course, world class cricket.

Follow Ghuncha  on Twitter @GhunchaFarooqK 

The views expressed by the writer and the reader comments do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of The Express Tribune.