Shafqat, Amitabh to bring patriotic fervour to Pak-India World Twenty20 match

Will there be a Pak-India sing-off before the World Twenty 20 match on March 19 at the Eden Gardens?

Not quite. But two megastars from Pakistan and India will sing the national anthem of their respective countries back-to-back before the first innings begins, reports First Post.

While classical singer Shafqat Amanat Ali seems like an obvious choice to sing Pakistan's national anthem, some may be surprised that Amitabh Bachchan will lend his vocals to India's. Bachchan even confirmed the news by retweeting a post in his official Twitter handle.

However, Bachchan, who is known for his rich baritone, has worked as playback singer to great success. He sang in his film Mr. Natwarlal, and was even nominated for the Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer.

Sources in the Cricket Association of Bengal on Tuesday said roping in Bachchan was its president Sourav Ganguly's effort. “The president was involved and the plan was on for a long time,” CAB sources said.