BCCI Vice-president, Lalit Modi, said: I am very pleased to have the country's largest two wheeler manufacturer Hero Honda extend its co-sponsorship deal from three to five years. Hero Honda have a long association with cricket both at the domestic and international levels and their decision bears testimony to the fact that the DLF Indian Premier League is here to stay and is set to carve out a distinct niche for itself in the international cricketing calendar".
The inaugural season of the IPL will showcase 59 matches, providing broadcasters and in-stadia spectators with 177 hours of what the BCCI says will be 'family entertainment'. All matches will be held during late afternoon and evening to coincide with prime time for television and providing a convenient time for the stadium audience.
