Kerala Cricket League shortlists Sanju Samson among seven icon players for the upcoming inaugural season

Kerala Cricket League shortlists Sanju Samson among seven icon players for the upcoming inaugural season

The Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) is set to launch a groundbreaking venture in Indian domestic cricket with the T20 Kerala Cricket League (KCL). With the stage set at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, this league promises to infuse the region with vibrant cricketing talent and energy. As the countdown to September 2, 2024, begins, here’s everything you need to know about the league, its franchises, and the upcoming player auction.

Franchises Announced for the Inaugural T20 Kerala Cricket League

A Diverse Group of Franchise Owners

The Kerala Cricket League will feature six franchises, each helmed by a mix of prominent figures and entrepreneurs. The consortiums are:

  • S Priyadarshan Jose Patara Consortium: Helmed by renowned filmmaker Priyadarshan, known for his impactful contributions to Indian cinema.
  • Sohan Roy (Aries Group): Sohan Roy, the visionary behind Aries Group, brings a wealth of experience in the business sector.
  • Sajad Seth (Finesses Consortium): Sajad Seth represents the Finesses Consortium, adding a new dimension to the league.
  • T. S. Kaladharan (Console Shipping Services India Pvt Ltd): T. S. Kaladharan, associated with Console Shipping Services, is set to make his mark in cricket.
  • Subhash George Manuel (Enigmatic Smile Rewards Pvt Ltd): Subhash George Manuel of Enigmatic Smile Rewards aims to contribute to the league’s success.
  • Sanju Muhammad (EKK Infrastructure Ltd): Sanju Muhammad from EKK Infrastructure is among the key franchise holders.

These franchisees are expected to bring a blend of business acumen and passion for cricket, which will be pivotal in shaping the league’s future.

League Objectives and Vision

Nurturing New Talent

The primary goal of the Kerala Cricket League is to unearth and nurture cricketing talent from across the region. KCA governing council chairman Nazir Machan emphasized that the league is designed to serve as a platform for discovering new players and providing them with opportunities to showcase their skills on a larger stage.

Celebrity Involvement and Excitement

Adding to the excitement, actor Mohanlal has been appointed as the league’s brand ambassador. His involvement is expected to draw substantial attention and support for the league. KCA secretary Vinod S Kumar and KCA member P. J. Nawaz also played significant roles in promoting the league’s vision and goals.

Broadcasting and Regulations

Coverage and Streaming Options

The matches will be broadcast live on Star Sports 2 and in HD, with digital streaming options also available. Fans will have ample opportunities to follow the action, ensuring widespread visibility and engagement.

Adherence to BCCI and ICC Standards

The league will operate under the rules and regulations set by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the International Cricket Council (ICC). This adherence ensures that the league maintains high standards and integrity in line with global cricketing norms.

Unveiling of the League Logo

A Grand Reveal

On Friday, the official logo of the Kerala Cricket League was unveiled at a special ceremony. International cricketer and KCL icon Sanju Samson revealed the logo, marking a significant milestone for the league. The event also included the presentation of individual franchise logos, setting the stage for the player auction.

Upcoming Auction Details

The player auction is scheduled for August 10 at the Hyatt Regency, beginning at 10 AM. The auction briefing, conducted by renowned commentator Charu Sharma, will feature a mock auction to familiarize the franchises with the process.

Auction Categories and Details

Categories and Base Salaries

The auction will be organized into three categories:

  • Category A: Players with IPL and Ranji Trophy experience, with a base salary of ₹2 lakh.
  • Category B: C K Naidu, U-23, U-19 State, and U-19 Challengers players, with a base salary of ₹1 lakh.
  • Category C: U-16 state players, university players, and club cricketers, with a base salary of ₹50,000.

Each player will be auctioned to the highest bidder, and the event will be broadcast live on Star Sports Three and the OTT platform Fancode.

Icon Players

Icon players such as P. A. Abdul Basit, Sachin Baby, Mohammad Azharuddin, Basil Thampi, Vishnu Vinod, and Rohan S. Kunnammal have already been selected for the league. Their inclusion promises to elevate the league’s profile and attract significant interest from fans and media alike.

The Road Ahead

Exciting Match Schedule

The Kerala Cricket League will feature 33 matches over 19 days, including two reserve days. Matches will be held at the Greenfield International Stadium from September 2 to 19, 2024. The league’s schedule promises an action-packed series of games, showcasing the best of regional cricketing talent.

Building a Legacy

As the league prepares to kick off, it is poised to become a significant addition to India’s domestic cricketing landscape. With a focus on talent development, high-profile franchise owners, and extensive media coverage, the Kerala Cricket League aims to build a lasting legacy and contribute to the growth of cricket in the region.

The T20 Kerala Cricket League is set to make waves in the world of cricket with its innovative approach and vibrant participation. As the franchises gear up and the player auction looms, anticipation is building for what promises to be an exciting and transformative tournament. Stay tuned for more updates as the league progresses and new cricketing talents emerge on the national stage.

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