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Billed as “bigger and better”, the third edition of the world’s richest cricket league will light up your screens like never before. The action will be broadcast live on SuperSport from Friday.

The hard-hitting, fast-paced Twenty20 extravaganza - totalling 94 matches - has proved a huge hit with its spicy combination of Bollywood royalty, cricket heroes and music stars.

Last term, the Deccan Chargers were crowned champions, and with the likes of Adam Gilchrist, Herschelle Gibbs and Andrew Symonds in their arsenal, they certainly won’t be lacking potential matchwinners.

However, there will certainly be a number of genuine contenders intent on prising away their crown. Foremost, the Mumbai Indians, who look a tasty proposition.

Sachin Tendulkar headlines their cast of superstars, while the fierce power hitting of West Indian newcomer Kieron Pollard - who boasts a strike rate of 157.55 - is also set to draw the crowds.

Pollard shone for Trinidad and Tobago in last year’s Twenty20 Champions league and went for a record $1.75 million during the IPL auction.

Irish-born England star Eoin Morgan, who lines up for the Royal Challengers Bangalore, is another master blaster to keep a close eye on. The innovative batsman has all the ingredients to prove an instant hit in his maiden IPL series.

The opening ceremony will be televised live on SuperSport 1 on Friday (3pm SA time), March 12. Then it’s down to business with the Deccan Chargers facing the Kolkata Knight Riders in the pipe opener live on SS1 from 4.15pm (SA time) Big hits, hot beats, and fireworks await. Be sure not to miss out.