Akshay Kumar to perform during Delhi-Punjab HIL match

PTI Updated - January 28, 2013 at 06:58 PM.

Akshay Kumar, Film actor. File Photo.

Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar will be present in the stands to watch Delhi Waveriders take on Jaypee Punjab Warriors in their Hockey India League game at the Major Dhyanchand Stadium here tomorrow.

According to sources, Akshay, who has already landed his support to the inaugural HIL, is likely to perform a small jig during the half time.

Confirming the development, Hockey India Secretary General and HIL Chairman Narinder Batra said, “It is good that eminent personalities from varied fields are visiting stadiums across cities to watch the league in action.

“The hockey has been sensational and informed Indian audiences have reacted positively. We have seen an upswing in stadium attendance across all five cities. We welcome Akshay Kumar with open arms. I am sure Delhities will love to see him in action,” he said.

Akshay, an avid sport follower, is the latest celebrity to back the ongoing HIL, saying that the event has the potential to change the face of the sport.

“I am a sportsperson by heart and it is good to see world class hockey action across cities in the country. I have seen some of the matches and loved what I saw,” he had said.

“This league has the potential to change the face of hockey in the country. I will follow as many matches as I can and I think we have here a recipe for a very successful property for years to come,” the actor added.

Meanwhile, according to information shared last week by official broadcaster STAR Sports, 1.46 crores viewers had tuned-in to watch first six matches of the five-team franchise-based event, making it the most successful league in hockey in the country till date.

STAR Sports had already announced a promotional tie-up with Akshay for the first edition of HIL.

Published on January 28, 2013 13:28