DLF IPL SEASON 5

The fifth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will be held from April 4 to May 27, 2012 in hot summer of the Indian subcontinent.Preparations has already begun after the extravagant closure to the 4th edition. Although the schedule has not been officially declared, a tentative fixture is under progress. The tournament will feature 74 matches and fifty four days of unadulterated cricket frenzy. "We have no doubt that the fifth season of the Indian Premier League will also be, if not more, eventful and exciting than the previous", the President of IPL Chirayu Amin said. He has promised to furnish to the media, and the respective franchise with the full length schedule soon enough. The tournament is scheduled after India's return from their tour of Australia and South Africa's tour of New Zealand in March.2012.

As in the fourth edition, the number of teams will be ten, with Sahara Pune Warriors and Kochi Tuskers Kerala joining the league last year but failing to qualify for the knockouts. Chennai Super Kings defended their title successfully, beating Royal Challengers Bangalore in the final.As usual, the matches will be distributed throughout the entire length and breadth of the country. Some of the most prestigious venues, including the Eden Gardens, Green Park, Sardar DY Patil Stadium, Wankhede, PCA Stadium, etc. will witness some of the toughest encounters between the various teams.

As in all the previous editions of the IPL, the tournament would be marked by a grand opening ceremony, in which most of the famous and noteworthy performers of the country are expected tol take part. Nobody knows who is going to perform in the opening ceremoney this year..The final would be preceded by a closing ceremony comprising of famous performances of artists from different spheres of entertainment and music.

Some interesting facts on IPL - according to global sports salaries review, IPL is the second highest-paid league, based on first-team salaries on a pro rata basis, second only to the NBA. IPL became the first sporting event ever to be broadcast live on YouTube in association with India Times. Its brand value was estimated to be around $3.67 billion in fourth season.