KINGFISHER BATTING FOR ‘FAIR PLAY’ AGAIN IN DLF 1PL 2011

Kingfisher Airlines Limited will again be the Official Umpire Partner for the upcoming DLF Indian Premier League (IPL) 2011 season.

In making this announcement, the DLF IPL – now in its fourth year – unveiled a line-up of some of cricket’s most respected match referees and umpires, who will officiate seven weeks of matches, starting next Friday (April 8). Among those who will be on duty during the compelling action ‘in the middle’ are Asad Rauf, Rudi Koertzen, Simon Taufel, Billy Doctrove and Aleem Dar while others such as Roshan Mahanama, Javagal Srinath and Andy Pycroft will be match referees. There is also a full slate of fourth umpires.

“We are happy with the continued partnership with Kingfisher Airlines for IPL 2011,” said IPL Commissioner, Mr. Chirayu Amin, as preparations for the tournament intensify.

Highlighting the vital role which match officials play in international cricket, Chairman & Managing Director of Kingfisher Airlines, Dr. Vijay Mallya, disclosed his company’s involvement in the tournament would be reflected by a number of prominent activations, including the Fly Kingfisher Fair Play Award.

This prize, which has been given annually since the DLF IPL’s inception, will again be presented to the team judged by the umpires to have played the game in the fairest spirit throughout the season. Umpires will be given criteria by which to judge teams. Reigning DLF IPL champions, Chennai Super Kings, copped the Fly Kingfisher Fair Play Award last year and in 2008, with Kings XI Punjab winning in 2009.

“We are delighted to continue our partnership with the Indian Premier League as the Official Umpire Partner. As officiators of the game, umpires are not just an integral part of cricket, but also the universal symbol of order and fair play in the field,” noted Dr. Mallya.

“The Indian Premier League is an innovative concept and has carved out a distinct position for itself in the international cricket calendar. We have planned a range of exciting promotions taking place throughout the league that will allow our guests to experience the excitement that the Indian Premier League has to offer this season.”