Christchurch & Melbourne staged one of the most glittering and spectacular events to declare the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 open. The event at both venues featured sporting and entertainment icons, cultural performances and impressive pyrotechnic displays that ensured that the 2015 World Cup had entertained even before a ball had been bowled. The audience was treated to diverse performances ranging from indigenous performers, Scottish pipers, Bollywood dancers, British Ballet etc., which paid tribute to every nation competing. All 14 of the competing teams at the Cricket World Cup were featured during the event. Pakistan and India stood side-by-side on stage in Melbourne ahead of their crucial clash at the Adelaide Oval. Fittingly, the star of the show was a giant dubbed “The Don’’. The 5.5m puppet — that took 2½ months to build — produced the defining sequence of the 2½-hour ceremony. Rising to his feet while the orchestra played around him, the puppet represented cricketers around the world. With music portraying his beating heart, he took the audience on a journey from the dressing room to the crease. He raised his bat in celebration, gave the audience a knowing nod and the six-week battle between 14 nations to become world champion was officially declared open.