The Indian Premier League has returned to the country after being forced to shift to South Africa due to security fears last year.

This time the 45-day event promises to even bigger and better.

Even as last season bottom finishers Kolkata Knight Riders are set to take on the defending champions Deccan Chargers in the tournament opener on Friday, the opening ceremony that is scheduled to take place before the first match at the D Y Patil Stadium is the talk of the town.

It will see some top international performers -- Lionel Ritchie, UB40 and Bjorn Agan, besides Bollywood star Deepika Padukone as well as some spectacular fireworks.

Three new cities -- Ahmedabad, Cuttack and Dharamsala will be able to watch the IPL matches this time around as they have been added recently as other venues to host the games.

Meanwhile, the 2.5-minute strategic breaks would be an important aspect in this season's IPL, with both the fielding and batting sides to be given specific overs to take those.

The bowling team captain can opt to take the break anytime between 6 to 8 overs, while the batting team skipper can take it between 11th and 16th over.

This IPL will be important for the players for more than one reason. They would be looking to give their best in this season so that they can strengthen their case for the IPL IV auction in 2011.

All in all, the cricketentainment is all set to provide its fans with some cool action on and off the field.