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Today, it is gives me great pride and satisfaction to see manner in which the Indian Premier League has evolved.
Please throw some light on the logistics of hosting the IPL. I mean from hotel bookings to flight tickets to ferrying cricketers from one country to another and then carrying them from one city to another, it all seems like a huge challenge.
I have always believed in the age-old adage of ‘where there is a will, there will always be a way’. And the task that you have outlined is not as complicated or cumbersome as you make it out to be. Corporate India also stands convinced about the product and the revenue model and has shown the appetite and passion for cricket.
Given that we now have synergies and huge support behind our efforts, a simple task like team logistics and boarding becomes virtually inconsequential. We have professionals who are managing the same and I am certain everything will be organised really well given that all our teams are meticulous at crossing their “Ts” and dotting their “Is”.
Cricketing nations outside the sub-continent fear that the IPL economy would jeopardise traditional cricket economy in terms of marketing and sponsorships. Please comment.
These fears are unfounded. Why is that we are hearing these voices of discontent only when India wanted to improve its domestic cricketing infrastructure with a league like the DLF IPL?
I am very optimistic that DLF IPL will turn into a global phenomenon and help take cricket to the next level. I have no doubt in my mind that if we build on the IPL platform over the next few years, we will have a format that could well revolutionise the way cricket is played, watched and followed globally. Kind of like what Kerry Packer and Channel 9 did to cricket earlier.
Imagine a domestic event in India covered globally, and our youngsters playing with the worlds’ best, showcasing their skills and also learning, with the best coaches and support staff to help them improve their game. Additionally, the adrenalin packed Twenty 20 format, which is fast-paced and exciting should also appeal to a global audience. And who knows a couple of years down the line the DLF IPL could well have its first Chinese or American player import—playing for one of the eight franchises. Kind of along the lines of the global appeal, fan base and player base that leagues...
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