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The eagerly awaited International Masters League (IML) is set to electrify the cricketing world, uniting legendary players from six cricketing powerhouses—India, Sri Lanka, Australia, England, South Africa, and West Indies—for an exhilarating T20 franchise tournament.
The inaugural edition will run from November 17 to December 8, promising a cricketing spectacle like no other.
The action will begin at Navi Mumbai’s iconic DY Patil Stadium, where the opening leg will feature four high-octane matches.
The tournament kicks off with a much-anticipated showdown between India and Sri Lanka on November 17, with the legendary Sachin Tendulkar leading India against Sri Lanka's maestro, Kumar Sangakkara—reigniting memories of their classic encounters.
Following this, Australia, captained by Shane Watson, will take on Jacques Kallis' South Africa, while Eoin Morgan's England will face off against Sangakkara's Sri Lanka. Adding to the excitement, Brian Lara’s West Indies will lock horns with Australia, in a contest bound to thrill fans.
After the opening matches in Navi Mumbai, the action shifts to Lucknow’s Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, starting November 21, where India will battle South Africa. Lucknow will host six matches before the tournament moves to Raipur's Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium.
Raipur will host eight crucial matches, including a high-stakes clash between India and England on November 28, and the nail-biting semi-finals leading up to the grand finale on December 8, where the first-ever IML champions will be crowned.
Captaining their respective teams, the cricketing icons—Sachin Tendulkar for India, Brian Lara for West Indies, Kumar Sangakkara for Sri Lanka, Shane Watson for Australia, Eoin Morgan for England, and Jacques Kallis for South Africa—are set to bring their immense experience, competitive fire, and unmatched skills to the T20 format.
Across 18 action-packed matches, the IML promises a thrilling blend of nostalgia and high-energy cricket.
Cricket legend and IML Ambassador Sachin Tendulkar expressed his excitement, saying, "As the ambassador and face of the IML, I am looking forward to leading and representing India Masters in the league. The action on the field will no doubt be competitive and exciting. All the players are enthused at the prospect of playing the IML at multiple venues. It's an opportunity to inspire the next generation while celebrating the sport that we all love."
West Indies captain Brian Lara echoed these sentiments: "It's going to be amazing to step back onto the field with such a talented group of players. The format is fast, exciting, and competitive—just what the fans want."
England captain Eoin Morgan added, "The IML brings the best of both worlds—cricketing legends and franchise competition. It's going to be a phenomenal experience for both players and fans."
South Africa's Jacques Kallis emphasised the competitive spirit of the league, saying, "The chance to play in such a competitive environment again is thrilling. The IML will showcase not only our talent but also our passion for the game."
Australia captain Shane Watson also shared his enthusiasm: "It's incredible to see so many legends of the game coming together in one league. I'm excited to lead Australia and will hopefully deliver some top-notch cricket for the fans."
Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara concluded, "Playing against the best once again in this format is special. Fans will get to see competitive cricket and relive some unforgettable moments."
League Commissioner Sunil Gavaskar captured the essence of the IML perfectly: "Stalwarts from every country will be playing the International Masters League. For them, it is a wonderful opportunity to showcase their skills and show the world that they are still very good. These guys don't know what it is to take it easy. It is going to be an exciting league, with close contests. I am sure it will be a treat for all those who come to the ground and watch on the television."
With so many legends taking the field, the International Masters League is all set to deliver a cricketing experience for the ages, where nostalgia meets fierce competition.