Dubai rolled out the glitter carpet as cricket met celebrity glam at the dazzling launch of the Global Celebrity League (GCL) – a cricket-meets-showbiz spectacle that’s about to redefine entertainment! A full-blown star-studded carnival, bringing together cricketing giants and film icons from India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Qatar for a night that had more sparkle than a Bollywood award show.
The evening kicked off with a poignant tribute honoring the league’s visionary founder, His Excellency Sheikh Saud Abdullah Al Thani. And from there, the energy soared – with the vivacious Shifali Bagga steering the show, the launch was pure high-octane glam.
The big reveal of the team jerseys and logos had fans cheering and flashing their cameras. The five teams — Pakistan Firefox, Indian Thunders, Afghan Warriors, Bengal Tigers, and Qatar Global — made their grand debut, each one flaunting style, swagger, and serious game-day energy.
And then came the moment that turned this glittering launch into cricket history — live team signings on stage! Pakistan Firefox, led by owner Mr. Waqas Alvi, unleashed a power trio of cricket royalty: Imran Nazir, Wahab Riaz, and the iconic Shahid Afridi. While, Indian Thunders, backed by Mr. Sumit Rajpal, answered with a combo of cricketing finesse and Bollywood charm — Shikhar Dhawan, Neha Sharma, Arbaaz Khan, and Sohail Khan.
GCL President Arif Malik took the mic and dropped the dates everyone’s been waiting for: May 27 to June 4, 2025 — with every match lighting up the Asian Town Cricket Stadium in Doha, Qatar. And yes, the league opener is that match: India vs. Pakistan!
Big props went to League Director Naghma Khan, whose behind-the-scenes magic made the whole night run like a dream. From celeb wrangling to cricket coordination, she was the unsung MVP of the evening.
Onstage, Shikhar Dhawan and Wahab Riaz amped up the crowd with speeches full of love for the game and excitement for what’s coming. And while he couldn’t be there in person, Shahid Afridi beamed in virtually, promising fans a thrilling cricket and unforgettable moments.
The red carpet sizzled, flashbulbs popped, and backstage turned into a celebrity-cricketer selfie fest. Honored guests and dignitaries were gifted bespoke souvenirs — classy tokens of a night no one’s forgetting anytime soon.
With global streaming ready to beam the action straight to fans worldwide, the Global Celebrity League is more than just cricket. It’s glitz, it’s glory, it’s game time — and it’s just getting started!
(Contributed by Wajeeha Syed)