WPL 2023: Bollywood stars provide fitting introduction to mega event as five captains unveil dazzling new trophy

The inaugural edition of the Women's Premier League (WPL) is finally here and fans have been waiting eagerly to see their favourite cricketers in action for their favourite teams. On matchday 1 of the mega event, Harmanpreet Kaur's Mumbai Indians (MI) will take on Beth Mooney's Gujarat Giants at the DY Patil Stadium on Saturday, March 4.

But, ahead of the much-awaited match, there was a dazzling opening ceremony with two of Bollywood's most prominent actors Kriti Sanon and Kiara Advani. They were joined by famous Punjabi rapper AP Dhillon, and the trio lit the stage on fire with their dance and music performances.

Click here to know all the live score updates of the match between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Giants

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It was also a momentous occasion for the Board for Control of Cricket in India (BCCI), who unveiled the WPL trophy for the first time after the five captains of the five teams were called onto the stage.

Meanwhile, Beth Mooney won the toss for the Giants and elected to bowl first in the inaugural Women's Premier League opener at the DY Patil Stadium on Saturday (March 4).

"Special day, goosebumps will be there, but now time to play. This wicket is very good to bat on. Bowling department also has something on this pitch. Most importantly, we need to enjoy and express ourselves." She also says Jintimani Kalita (the only Assam player) is playing, Saika Ishaque another one she wants us to keep our eyes on," Harmanpreet said before the toss.

Meanwhile, GG skipper Beth Mooney said, "We'll have a bowl, good grass here. Chasing has been successful here. WPL will be exciting for the fans, looking forward to get stuck in. Last few days have been fun, very few entertaining personalities. Maybe I talk a little too quickly and they can't catch on. But pleasant experience. Few of us have experienced this before, so we can give advice to those who haven't before. First game, hope to give a good spectacle. Three seamers, four spinners, mix of experience and youth."

Harmanpreet has young guns Jintimani Kalita (the only Assam player) and Saika Ishaque in Mumbai's Playing XI, while Mooney's Giants side have Australians as all four of their overseas players.