Fireworks lit up the night sky and vibrant dancers created dazzling patterns in the arena. School children waltzed, forming a tapestry of myriad hues. And the skippers made a heart-warming appearance in cycle rickshaws that encapsulated the spirit of Bangladesh.
The 10th ICC Cricket World Cup was ushered in with joy and anticipation at the Bangabandhu Stadium here on Thursday. A sense of celebration was the motif.
The 14 captains featuring in the premier ODI competition waved to the packed audience, underlining a feeling of togetherness. In the days ahead, the teams they lead will face a test of character.
Tradition blended with modernity during the nearly 150-minute show heralding the tournament. Laser beams wrapped the platform with spectacular lights. Then, folk music and performers in exquisite attires held centre-stage.
PM declares WC open
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina officially declared the World Cup open by placing her hand on the palm scanner. ICC President Sharad Pawar's speech reflected the governing body's resolve to conduct a successful event. “The day is a historic one,” he said.
Perhaps, the highlight of the event was the creation of an imaginary sea, by artists skilfully using long, gleaming, silk ribbons. Then, a ship glided over the vast blue expanse. Indeed, the third World Cup in the sub-continent has weathered several storms over the past two years.
The music trio of Shankar, Ehsaan and Loy rendered the racy theme of the competition. The crowd roared.
Famous Bangladeshi singers, including Runa Laila, had the spectators dancing in rhythm. Artificial balls of fire encircled the arena.
The stadium was awash with emotions when legendary rock singer Bryan Adams belted out chart-busters. Not surprisingly, the immortal ‘Summer of 69' featured in his list of songs.
Mahendra Singh Dhoni would surely be hoping that India recreates the magic of the Summer of '83.
Fielding questions from the media earlier, he denied that India, a co-host, would be burdened by expectations. Dhoni also said “this is a very open World Cup.”
Australia, the runaway winner of the last three editions, might be hard-pressed to hold on to the ‘Cup That Matters' this time around.
However, skipper Ricky Ponting played down the importance of practice games — Australia disappointed against South Africa — even as he highlighted his team's commitment and versatility.
“This is a different team from some other Australian sides. But it has done extremely well in the one-day competitions in the sub-continent.
“The side has cricketers who have experience in these conditions.
“It also has youngsters who look forward to the challenge of playing in the sub-continent,” said Ponting.
England captain Andrew Strauss stressed the need for his team to get acclimatised to the conditions quickly.
