It is one event that will grab a million eyeballs. Film buffs and cricket fans will not want to miss this tournament. The Celebrity Cricket League is kickstarting from January 13 and cricket fever is soaring across the six film industries.
Karnataka Bulldozers, Chennai Rhinos, Mumbai Heroes, Telugu Warriors, with two new teams Bengal Tigers and Kerala Strikers, are ready to romp the battlefield with their strikes and blows. “We are just waiting to get on the ground. It was a rigorous training session that lasted one-and-a-half months. Now we are ready and will win the cup,” says actor Tarun Chandra, one of the all-rounders from Karnataka Bulldozers.
The run up to the tournament hasn’t been easy on the home team. Getting to practice sessions at 6 am, balancing work schedules and yoga sessions to learn breathing exercises — Sandalwood stars are going all out for the big event. “Our energy and confidence levels have improved. We are focused and the positive energies of our captain Sudeep and senior actor Darshan has seeped into everyone. We are sure we will give our best,” says actor J. Karthik, who is confident the Bulldozers will emerge winners.
Last year, the Chennai Rhinos beat Karnataka Bulldozers in the final match, “We felt last year was incomplete, we didn’t get the cup. So this year, we have corrected our mistakes and are working on our strengths,” says actor Chiranjeevi Sarja.
With every practice session, the team members are getting closer and are determined to reign supreme. Since two new teams have entered the fray, the battle for victory will be tough. “We don’t know the potential of Bengal Tigers and Kerala Strikers. Each team is good. We were in great form last year and performed well. Even the winners (Chennai Rhinos) told us that the cup belonged to us,” says actor Rahuls.
While the actors are gearing up for the big fight, others from the industry will be around to support their friends. “Most of my friends (from South teams) are playing for different teams. But I will definitely attend some of the matches to cheer them,” says actor Rukmini.