April 01, 2008	Tuesday	Rabi-ul-Awwal 23, 1429

NEW DELHI, March 31: Dashing Indian opener Virender Sehwag, Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik and fast bowler Mohammad Asif came together on Monday alongwith Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar at the impressive unveiling of the colourful outfit of Indian Premier League’s ‘Delhi Daredevils’ team.

Akshay, born and brought up in the capital’s Chandni Chowk area, surprised a packed room at a five star hotel when he emerged in dim light making a batting gesture with helmets and a willow in Daredevils’ red and black shirt. “My heart beats for Delhi. I consider myself a pucca Dilliwalah. I would like to thank the everyone present for choosing me as the first fan of Delhi Daredevils. I hope I become a lucky mascot for the team,” the actor said with his trademark smile.

He praised Daredevils captain Virender Sehwag for scoring a triple century in India’s first Test against South Africa in Chennai and also welcomed Pakistani stars Malik and Asif to the team. “I am a sportsman also. Let us talk about cricket. I want to commit myself on some things which are very dear to me, that is why I am here.”

Pakistan’s pace sensation Asif, speaking on the occasion said he was looking forward to playing alongside legendary Aussie fast bowler Glenn McGrath who will also be participating in the IPL.— Agencies