UAE cinemas IPL to be shown

UAE cinemas IPL to be shown Dubai, Apr 6 : For the first time, Indian Premier League
(IPL) matches are to be shown on the big screen in UAE cinemas in high definition images.Starting this week, fans have the chance to watch their favourite teams battle for supremacy at nine cinemas across the country as the IPL Twenty20 season draws to a conclusion. It is the first time that the matches have been broadcast live to cinemas outside India, a National daily said.

On Sunday evening a preview was held at the Grand Cineplex in the Grand Hyatt hotel. The audience was quickly captivated by the drama. Every shot was met with a cheer, each wicket with a hearty round of applause.

The hollywood and bollywood releases here may soon be facing stiff competition from IPL matches, the consolation is that it will be seasonal.

The promoters said they expected a positive response when the shows open to the public later this week. It is the first time that cricket has been televised at cinemas in the Middle East.Entertainment and Sports Direct (ESD), which has acquired global theatrical rights to the matches, has collaborated with Al Nisr Cinema and Gulf Films to bring the matches to cinemas.

Arun Rangachari, the chairman of DAR Capital Group, which is promoting ESD, said they had been telecasting IPL matches at 650 cinemas in India. There, theatres have seen an average occupancy rate of just over 45 per cent, which is considered high.