Cricket lovers, mark your calendars for an exciting clash of the legends as the International Masters League (IML) 2025 kicks off. The opening match will see the India Masters, led by none other than Sachin Tendulkar, face off against the Sri Lanka Masters, captained by Kumar Sangakkara. This much-anticipated match is slated for February 22, and cricket fans are no doubt thrilled at the chance to see some of the biggest names in the sport take the field once again.
The match is not just any ordinary game—it’s a treat for anyone who grew up watching Tendulkar’s magic on the field or Yuvraj Singh hammering sixes with ease. Tendulkar, although he has played only one T20 International for India, steps into the captain's role for the India Masters, bringing his iconic presence back to the shortest format of the game. Joining him is Yuvraj Singh, who fans remember as the star of India's 2011 ODI World Cup win. Together, these two will reignite old rivalries and friendships on the pitch.
The India Masters squad is a collection of talent that fans will recognize, featuring players like Yusuf Pathan, known for his hard-hitting prowess, and his brother Irfan Pathan, whose all-round abilities have delighted spectators. Other familiar faces include Ambati Rayudu and Stuart Binny. The Sri Lanka Masters team isn’t short on skill, either. Under the leadership of Sangakkara, expect to see playmakers like Lahiru Thirimanne, adding spice to what promises to be an enthralling contest.
This cricket spectacle will unfold at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, with a match start time of 7:30 pm IST. If fans can't make it to the stadium, they can catch all the action live on Colors Cineplex SD & HD, as well as Colors Cineplex Superhits. For the digital-savvy, the JioStar app will stream the match, ensuring not a moment is missed.
Tickets are up for grabs on BookMyShow, but here's a bonus for students and senior citizens—they can snag complimentary passes right from the stadium's box office. It's a brilliant initiative to bring in more spectators and let the younger and older generations enjoy the cricketing nostalgia fully. With such arrangements, it seems clear that the organizing committee is keen on keeping the cricket festival accessible to as many fans as possible.
The stage is set, and the players are ready to roll back the years with their magical play. From the roaring crowd to the first ball being bowled, this is one event that’s not to be missed. Whether you're a die-hard cricket aficionado or simply someone who appreciates the legends taking the field, this match inaugurates the IML season on a high note. So, gear up and be ready to witness some classic cricketing action as Tendulkar and his team strive to start the season with a bang!