DHAKA: With thousands in attendance and millions watching around the world, the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 opened in spectacular fashion with star-laden events in both Christchurch and Melbourne.

Featuring sporting and entertainment icons, cultural performances and impressive pyrotechnic displays, the Opening Events have ensured that the 2015 World Cup has entertained even before a ball has been bowled.

The ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 got off with a bang in Christchurch Thursday as a colorful crowd in the tens of thousands packed in to North Hagley Park in New Zealand to witness a spectacular opening ceremony.

A two-hour extravaganza that featured 1000 performers, including past and present Black Caps stars, All Blacks captain Richie McCaw, and some of New Zealand's top musical acts, concluded with a massive fireworks display.

The high-budget, free show, which organizers the International Cricket Council (ICC) claim was broadcast live to 2.5 billion people across more than 220 countries, and airing this noon (Bangladesh time) in the cricket superpower of India, opened the sport's showpiece tournament in style.

BDST: 1750 HRS, FEB 12, 2015