New Delhi, Dec 15: In a strategic move to further expand the cricketing landscape, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is in the early stages of planning to introduce a tier-2 cricket league, potentially adopting the T10 format. The league’s anticipated launch window is set for September-October next year, garnering positive feedback from diverse stakeholders.
The BCCI is presently mulling over the decision of whether to proceed with the T10 format or greenlight it as a T20 league. Discussions are also underway regarding the potential imposition of an age cap for the tier-2 league, aimed at safeguarding the interests of the well-established Indian Premier League (IPL). According to a recent report from brand valuation consultancy Brand Finance, the IPL’s total brand value witnessed a remarkable 28% surge after the 2023 season, reaching an impressive $10.7 billion (approximately Rs 89,232 crore). Since its inception in 2008, the brand value of India’s flagship sports event has surged by an astounding 433%.
The BCCI is additionally contemplating the location for the tournament, weighing the options of hosting it in India or exploring new overseas venues. Another key point of discussion is the proposition to grant the existing IPL franchise owners the “right to first refusal.” This entails affording the current IPL franchise owners the opportunity to participate before any tenders are released for a similar league by the BCCI.While the board is engrossed in these deliberations, the immediate focus remains on the impending IPL auction scheduled to unfold in Dubai on December 19.In a parallel development, Saudi Arabia has recently expressed keen interest in collaborating with the Indian cricket board to enhance tourism in the Gulf country. This aligns well with the potential requirements of a newly proposed project seeking a host country in the Gulf region for a mobile tournament.
The BCCI, often touted as one of the wealthiest sports bodies globally, finds itself in league with esteemed counterparts such as the National Basketball Association and the English Premier League. (Agencies)
