World Cup Opens With Dazzling Ceremony

Thousands of fans crammed at venue to see the launch of First World Cup in New Zealand and Australia in 23 years. The formal part of the ceremony began with a lone bagpiper and ended with a booming fireworks display.

a fan of Ireland's cricket team plays with a child during the ICC World Cup 2015 event, in Melbourne.

Fireworks explodes during World Cup opening event at Sydney Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne.

Dance School of Distinction, representing England performing during the ceremony.

Pakistan Cricket Team captain Misbah ul Haq (R) stand next to Indian captain Mehendra Singh Dhoni.

Ten captains of ICC member countries stand with their national flags.