Dharamsala set for cricket fever as Punjab Kings arrive
Punjab Kings arrived in the hill town of Dharamsala on Thursday for their designated home fixtures of Indian Premier League, setting the stage for an exciting cricketing phase in the region. Cricket enthusiasts gathered outside the Kangra airport to catch a glimpse of their favourite stars despite a slight delay in the team's scheduled arrival.
The squad, led by head coach Ricky Ponting and captain Shreyas Iyer, included players such as Marco Jansen, Priyansh Arya and Cooper Connolly. After landing, the team headed straight to the Radisson Blu Resort, which will serve as their base during the upcoming matches.
From Friday onwards, Punjab Kings are expected to begin intensive training sessions at the iconic HPCA Stadium, renowned for its high-altitude conditions and panoramic views of the snow-clad Dhauladhar ranges. The side is likely to focus on acclimatising to the unique playing environment as the tournament enters a decisive phase.
Dharamsala will host three crucial Punjab Kings fixtures — against Mumbai Indians on May 11, Delhi Capitals on May 14 and Royal Challengers Bengaluru on May 17. Adding to the excitement, the prestigious Qualifier 1 of the IPL will also be played at the HPCA Stadium on May 26, marking a landmark moment for Dharamsala and promising a major boost to tourism and the local economy.
