After a long wait, cricket, in particular, PSL has officially returned to Pakistan. The fifth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) will be played entirely here and it goes without saying that excitement levels are high.

The opening ceremony was promised to be a glittering affair with more than 350 artists expected to perform. However, Pakistanis were not impressed with the final product.

Here’s everything that happened at the opening ceremony of PSL 5 at the National Stadium Karachi.

RELATED STORIES

The National Stadium was lit

The ceremony was opened by Karachi-based VJ Ahmed Godil who instantly became meme material.

Chief Minister Sindh Murad Ali Shah and Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board Ehsan Mani said a few words before the performances began

Whirling dervishes performed to the Sufi serenades of Sanam Marvi, Abu Mohammad, Fareed Ayaz, and rock band Soch

Sajjad Ali, Abrar ul Haq, Aima Baig and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan were among those who performed at the event. However, fans did not appreciate them lip-syncing instead of performing live. Ali Azmat, Arif Lohar, Asim Azhar and Haroon sang the PSL V anthem ‘Tayyar Hain‘.

The opening ceremony concluded with a spectacular display of fireworks which was also possibly the best part of the ceremony

It was Islamabad United vs Quetta Gladiators. Quetta won the toss and opted to bowl

Azam Khan won hearts with his performance on the field

People were not happy with Ramiz Raja for ‘fat-shaming’ Azam

The first day of the PSL 5 ended with Quetta Gladiators winning the match