KOLKATA: India and Indian Premier League (IPL) fans are all gung-ho as preparations are on for the country's biggest sporting spectacle. The latest edition of the Indian Premier League is set to bring with it a new ray of optimism and cheer for millions across the country who have been homebound courtesy Covid2019. While social distancing norms have disrupted the way live sports are enjoyed, Disney+ Hotstar VIP has innovated to bring home an in-stadium experience that is unparalleled in the world of sports - fans can join a virtual community that will allow them to enjoy the matches with their friends and fellow cricket lovers real-time, whilst sharing selfies and videos.
Upping the ante from the previous tournaments, this year Disney+ Hotstar VIP has added new features to the interactive Watch’N Play social feed that allows a nationwide virtual community of cricket lovers to share excitement and support while watching the matches live on the platform. Replicating the exhilarating roar of the stadium, fans will be able to determine the mood of the nation using an interactive emoji stream.
In a global first, cricket lovers will be able to join in the action by expressing themselves using ‘Hotshots’ selfies or a new video feature ‘Duets’ that lets fans create customized videos showcasing their rendition of famous shots and reactions of their favorite Dream11 IPL Heroes; the best of which will be broadcast on Star Sports.
The Walt Disney Company APAC president & Star and Disney India chairman Uday Shankar said: “Over the past few years, IPL has become the most loved sporting tournament in the country. After several months of the lockdown, we believe that this tournament can be a catalyst in ushering in new optimism and smiles in India, with millions of fans cheering together from all parts of the country. Our use of technology in presenting this immersive experience will not only set a global benchmark but also redefine the way we watch and enjoy sports in the coming years.”
The Dream11 IPL 2020 will only be accessible to new and existing subscribers of Disney+ Hotstar VIP and Disney+ Hotstar Premium. Notably, Starting 19 September, all live matches will be exclusively available to new and existing subscribers of Disney+ Hotstar VIP and Disney+ Hotstar Premium.
Additionally in an attempt to make it easier for people to subscribe, Disney+ Hotstar VIP has tied up with leading telecom companies in India - Jio and Airtel. Both partners will offer exciting prepaid recharge plans bundled with a 12-months subscription to Disney+ Hotstar VIP along with the convenience of buying these across either millions of Jio and Airtel retail stores using cash in or digital payments.
