Let the game begin…

Mona

Cricket and cinema enjoy cult-like following in the country and when cine stars don the jerseys to play the gentleman’s game, the combo is lethal.

Known names like Sohail Khan, Sonu Sood, Riteish Dekhmukh, Navraj Hans, Ayushmann Khurrana and Dinesh Yadav had the onlookers in awe as they practiced their moves.

Chandigarh hosts four teams — Mumbai Heroes, Bhojpuri Dabanggs, Punjab De Sher and Bengal Tigers for matches scheduled for Saturday in sector 16 cricket stadium.. Our actor-players who were in high spirits shared their love for the game…

“My family is crazy about cricket. My father is obsessed with cricket and my brothers and I have grown playing gully cricket,” says Sohail about his fondness for the game.

“When I was approached with the idea of celebrity cricket in 2010 and I shared with my friends, everyone was keen, and here we are with out sixth outing.”

The stars’ shooting schedules are no issue as their enthusiasm to play makes them block the dates months in advance.

Giving Sohail company was Riteish Deshmukh. On being asked how it felt to be flanked by Punjab De Shers, says Riteish, “I have never seen so many shers in one go, I am feeling like one.” Riteish loves Chandigarh for its architectural significance, he being an architect himself, having studied about the city in detail.

Sonu Sood, who leads Punjab De Sher, reiterates his message to the youth to keep fit and stay healthy in order to stay away from unhealthy habits. “Games are the best way to recreation and not to stray,” offers he. While all others looked jaded and faded post a session, it was owner Punjab team Navraj Hans, totally in his swag along with the freshest entry to his team —Ayushmann Khurrana.

“Last time I hit 122 and this time aiming at 222,” said Navraj welcoming Ayushmann. The later expressed happiness in being part of the team and playing on home grounds. Yuvraj Singh having made it to T20 world Cup India team has made this actor proud, “He was my senior in college. He is a fearless fighter both on and off grounds.”

Representing Bhojpuri Dabanggs was vice-captain Dinesh Yadav who expressed his love for the tournament, “We are pitted against Mumbai Heroes who are our idols, we feel privileged to play this game in City Beautiful.”

The entry of Punjab team takes the CCL tournament pan India and Sohail hugely values the addition. “The CCL was so far considered a South Indian tourney, with Punjab entering it, not only have we increased our viewer base but also sold youtube and internet rights this season, something that I credit to huge Punjabi NRI base spread across the world.”

The T 20 matches on Saturday are scheduled for Mumbai Heroes vs Bhojpuri Dabanggs at 2 pm and Punjab De Sher vs Bengal Tigers 6:30 pm at Sector 16 Cricket Stadium.

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