Dubai: “Come early and don’t miss the Indian Premier League action from the start. For those who could not manage to get tickets for weekend matches, rush and get tickets for weekday matches, as tickets are still available.” That’s the message from Maqbul Dudhia, General Manager Sports Business of Dubai Sports City, where the Dubai International Cricket Stadium and International Cricket Council (ICC) Academy are located.

”When IPL action is on your doorstep, try and not miss it by getting any ticket available on any day that is available because it will be an opportunity to cherish for ever as being part of it,” added Dudhia, who has through his team ensured that top of facilities are available for players and spectators.

To make sure that everyone is seated before the start, Dudhia said: “The gates will open from noon and for all the matches, spectators will be allowed entry at least two-and-a-half hours before the start.”

“IPL being held under ‘Ring of Fire’ lighting from the roof of the stadium will be magic. The electric atmosphere in the stadium now with the added elements of the IPL will be amazing,” added Dudhia, who acknowledged the support of government agencies.

“We are very grateful for the support from Dubai Sports Council and government agencies that facilitated visas to customs clearances and they have done us proud.”

Dudhia also revealed that the ground staff have made special arrangements to ensure a good Twenty20 wicket. “It will be a good Twenty20 wicket with lots of runs that can ensure exciting cricket to the spectators,” he said.

To ensure that spectators reach the stadium comfortably, Dudhia said: “We are working with the Road Transport Authority (RTA). As Dubai Sports City is now part of the official bus route, we are working with the RTA to support us with extra buses during match days. Taxis and parking facilities will also be available.”

Dudhia also revealed that all the teams will be training at the state-of-the-art facilities at the ICC Academy in Dubai Sports City before their matches. “We are making available all the facilities at the ICC academy, which include the various types of pitches, indoor training facilities with spin and pace machines and our gymnasium and the Oval grounds for fielding practice.”

The IPL will, he said, showcase Dubai’s top-class cricket facilities to the world. “This tournament will gather even more buzz with the public and will showcase the facilities here all over the world. The kind of following that IPL gets through its 2.6 billion television viewers will help people know about Dubai’s world-class facilities. This will place the UAE and Dubai on the map, enhancing the vision of making Dubai a top-class sporting destination.”

With 25,000 tickets sold out for weekend matches, Dudhia feels that: “A full house overflowing with people will be a great atmosphere by itself and whole the place will be rocking. ”