The Hindu : Sport : Gala opening ceremony today

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Thursday, Feb 17, 2011
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Gala opening ceremony today

Dhaka: The biggest event in the game — the World Cup — returns to its new power centre, the Indian sub-continent, for the third time with a gala opening ceremony on Thursday.

Amid tight security, Dhaka is all set to usher in 43 days of riveting action spread across 13 venues in three countries with a mesmerising 135-minute routine of song, dance and laser shows at the Bangabandhu National Stadium.

On Saturday, Bangladesh and co-host India clash in the inaugural game at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium here.

The other host country Sri Lanka starts off its campaign against Canada in a Group ‘A' encounter in Colombo on Sunday. Of the three South Asian neighbours, India has organised the event with Pakistan in 1987, while Sri Lanka joined the duo as the 1996 host. For first time co-host Bangladesh, the honour has coincided with a historic occasion, as 2011 marks the silver jubilee of its first ever ODI game against Pakistan in 1986.

The World Cup, featuring 14 teams and 49 matches has not been without its share of controversies. Terrorism, the tardy pace of preparations and the weather proved major hindrances. — IANS

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