Last year, the Twenty20 tournament was blend of fame and game. Many Indian players along with the world's top players were part of eight city-based teams which were sponsored by some of India's biggest companies and some famous stars of Bollywood like Preity Zinta, Shah Rukh Khan and Juhi Chawla.

Shilpa Shetty, a UK Celebrity Big Brother winner two years ago, has also joined the league of Bollywood stars associated with IPL. She, along her partner, Raj Kundra has done a deal with IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals owners Emerging Media group. This deal will give her 11 per cent stake in Rajasthan Royals. She will also be the brand ambassador of the team.

Shilpa Shetty said: "Cricket is not a sport in our country, it's a religion. I am very passionate about cricket and who better to invest in than the current reigning IPL champions."