KARACHI: Pakistan's musical heartthrob Atif Aslam, as well rapper Imran Khan and actress-model Humaima Malik, will feature in the PSL 2021 opening ceremony, according to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Ahead of the highly-anticipated opening ceremony of the Pakistan Super League's (PSL) sixth iteration, the PCB revealed on Sunday that the line-up includes Atif Aslam — who would make his PSL opening ceremony debut — while Khan and Malik would be present alongside the PSL 2021 anthem stars Naseebo Lal, Aima Baig, and Young Stunners.
The PSL 2021 "will start with a glittering opening ceremony on 20 February with an entertainment-packed event" — an annual colourful event since the series' inception in 2016.
"Along with Atif, renowned rap artist Imran Khan will also be marking his debut at the HBL PSL stage. The HBL PSL 6 opening ceremony will have some parts filmed offshore in a specially designed studio space in Turkey.
"The first four ceremonies were held at the Dubai International Stadium while the 2020 opening ceremony was staged at the National Stadium Karachi and the same venue will play host to the 2021 ceremony," the PCB said.
Watch behind-the-scenes video of PSL 2021 anthem 'Groove Mera' by Naseebo Lal, Aima Baig:
Defending champions Karachi Kings would face off Quetta Gladiators in a night match — the first one of the series — right after the opening ceremony.
In this regard, PCB Commercial Director Babar Hamid revealed that PSL 2021 opening ceremony would be "really exciting especially with the state-of-the-art technology being used to create this experience for Pakistani fans".
“As always, the excitement is further raised with the opening clash of the tournament, and the people in Karachi, I am sure will look forward to see[ing] Karachi Kings and Quetta Gladiators take the field as they both enjoy a huge fan base in the city.”
The ceremony would be aired on Geo Super and the sports channel of Pakistan's state-run television, PTV. Its starting time "will be revealed in the coming week".
In case you still haven't checked out the PSL 2021 anthem, here it is:
Ex-Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar expressed belief that Rohit would not wait for selectors to make decision
Vinicius scored 24 goals in 39 appearances to help Madrid clinch LaLiga, Champions League double
"Alhamdulillah, Allah has blessed Aqsa & Naseer with beautiful Ayra," Afridi writes on Instagram
Green Shirts secure 1-0 lead in three-match series against Proteas
Tim is true champion, great New Zealand cricketer and sports person, says Richard Hadlee
Overseas matches ruled out as PCB prepares to stage PSL draft for season 10 on January 11
