IPL Auction 2012
As the results of Auction of IPL are out the governing authority of IPL has announced that there will be 9 teams that are going to play in this season of IPL. There will be more number of players in each team. So each team can increase their team size from 30 to 33 players. Thus there is an increase in the number of foreign players from ten to eleven but only 4 players can play the game. The teams can also have an additional salary of around $2 million. There will two more teams that are added in this IPL 2012. The one more team is Pune team. The Pune is owned by Sahara group and is all set to make mark in the tournament.
There was a rule also that 2 foreign players and 4 domestic players can retain in the same team. The leading players of the IPL Auction 2012 are Brendon McCullum, Ravindra Jadeja, Muttiah Muralitharan and Mahela Jayawardene. The council of the IPL has decided that the first window for trading of players would be from December 15, 2011 to January 20, 2012. The best thing about this window is that there will be no financial cap on the trading. The IPL also had a debate that the Daredevils be will be retained by the same franchise or not.
The IPL Auction 2012 will be held on February 4, 2012 at 11 am. You can catch it on Set Max which is the official broadcaster of IPL. The players after the IPL Auction with highest paid salary in the previous years were Sreesanth (India), VVS Laxman (India) and Graeme Swann (England) with $400,000. The other players who got $300.000 are Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka), James Anderson (England) and Mitchell Johnson (Australia). There were capped players and uncapped players who got $100,000 that includes Dwayne Smith, Denesh Ramdin, Ravi Rampaul, Darren Bravo (West Indies), Brag Hogg, Stuart Mac Gill, Adam Voges, Ben Cutting, James Faulkner (Australia), Ray Price (Zimbabwe), Simon Jones, Jade Dernbach (England), Kyle Mills, Jacob Oram (New Zealand) and many more. The lowest paid salary was $20,000 that was given to the players.
IPL NEWS UPDATES.........
Kolkata's big night: Rs 40K for a Scotch!
Posted on APRIL 21, 2012
Kolkata players rode on Wednesday's heady victory over Punjab to go into an even headier celebration - the after party, joined by Shah Rukh Khan and Preity Zinta - powered by liquor that included a 50-year-old Scotch called The Last Drop, priced at Rs 40,000 for a chhota.
"This brand, which we served, is one of the most expensive Scotch in the world. Alcohol lovers first produced it in Scotland in the 13th century," said Sunny Chopra, F&B manager at the team hotel. A 750 ml Last Drop bottle comes for Rs 14 lakh and is available on request.
The party, also attended by Brett Lee, Brendon McCullum, Jacques Kallis, Manvinder Bisla and Sunil Narine, continued until early Thursday and soaked up 37 litres of alcohol. Mexican beer topped consumption with 52 pints, followed by a Japanese beer. The booze bill being Rs 2.19 lakhs.
The spirits were high too as Brett Lee brought in his personal music system and turned DJ. Preity Zinta too joined in. Dmitri Mascarenhas and Harmeet Singh of the Punjab team and Jacques Kallis and Zaheer Khan also came in discussing Yusuf Pathan's marriage.
"This brand, which we served, is one of the most expensive Scotch in the world. Alcohol lovers first produced it in Scotland in the 13th century," said Sunny Chopra, F&B manager at the team hotel. A 750 ml Last Drop bottle comes for Rs 14 lakh and is available on request.
The party, also attended by Brett Lee, Brendon McCullum, Jacques Kallis, Manvinder Bisla and Sunil Narine, continued until early Thursday and soaked up 37 litres of alcohol. Mexican beer topped consumption with 52 pints, followed by a Japanese beer. The booze bill being Rs 2.19 lakhs.
The spirits were high too as Brett Lee brought in his personal music system and turned DJ. Preity Zinta too joined in. Dmitri Mascarenhas and Harmeet Singh of the Punjab team and Jacques Kallis and Zaheer Khan also came in discussing Yusuf Pathan's marriage.
IPL 5 opening ceremony
Posted on APRIL 03, 2012
9.50 p.m.: Here Katy Perry arrives. A brief performance but top-class stuff. With that the opening ceremony comes to a close. Tomorrow, Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians will kick off the tournament at Chennai's MA Chidambaram Stadium. See you there. We will be back with live updates.
9.30 p.m.: The heartthrob Salman Khan is now ready with his performance. This is the moment everyone has long been waiting for. His arrival has sent all the girls out there into a frenzy. Two hours have gone by and the excitement level has not gone down a bit. Remember, Katy Parry is yet to perform.
9 p.m.: Finally we see Ravi Shastri. Now come all the captains of the teams, one by one. Rahul Dravid (Rajasthan Royals) is the first to come on the stage, followed by Gautam Gambhir (Kolkata Knight Riders); Sourav Ganguly (Pune Warriors India); the legendary Adam Gilchrist (Kings XI Punjab); Virender Sehwag (Delhi Daredevils); Harbhajan Singh (Mumbai Indians); Daniel Vettori (Royal Challengers Bangalore); Cameron White (Deccan Chargers) and last but not least MS Dhoni (Chennai Super Kings). Here are the captains of the nine IPL teams, all together. The trophy is out there in the centre with BCCI president N Srinivasan and IPL chairman Rajiv Shukla joining the captains on the stage. Srinivasan says the tournament has gone from strength to strength since its inception. That's true. Here is another announcement form the president. The proceeds from the play-offs will be divided between 181 former India and domestic cricketers. Great gesture on the part of the board. Amitabh Bachchan is the latest arrival. He is urging the captains to play the game according to the MCC rules - with integrity and dignity. The captains are going to sign the pledge. It was a moving speech, indeed.
8.45 p.m: Now it's the chhammak chhallo girl Kareena Kapur's turn to bedazzle the audience with her gyrations. She is a real stunner, a real treat for the audience. Chennai, you are rocking today. Her performance ends to a thunderous applause. It has made everyone's day out there.
8.30 p.m.: The Chennai Super Kings team is now on the stage. And, Priyanka Chopra joins the players. MS Dhoni and Priyanka are exchanging banter, and the audience is liking it a great deal. Laughter seems to be the order right now. Hang on guys. They are dancing to a super-hit Telegu number. It's all fun.
8.20 p.m.: Here comes the dancing legend Prabhudeva. Our own Michael Jackson and believe me you, the performance is from another world. What a great night it's turning out to be. Wow.
8.05p.m.: Ladies and gentlemen, it's Priyanka Chopra now and lo and behold, she has begun dancing to aaj ki raat hona hai kya, pana hai kya from the movie Don 2.. Great moves. The audience is watching the performance with rapt attention.
7.30 p.m.: Welcome to yet another much-anticipated opening ceremony of the Indian Premier League. Guys, be ready for some dazzling performances. All eyes are on Chennai's YMCA ground. It's the fifth season and the excitement among fans across the world seems to have gone to another level this time. Some really top-class entertainment is coming our way as big names from Hollywood and Bollywood join their hands together for the event. Amitabh Bacchan, Priyanka Chopra, Kareena Kapoor and Salman Khan will represent the Indian film industry, while American singer Katy Perry will croon to a packed house. Are you ready?
IPL 2012 Opening Ceremony: Lengthy Bollywood style ceremony launches IPL 5
Posted on APRIL 03, 2012
CHENNAI: Bollywood superstars Salman Khan,Kareena Kapoor and American pop sensation Katy Perry were the highlights of a lengthy opening ceremony of the fifth edition of the IPL, which failed to live up to its high expectations on Tuesday night despite the huge glamour quotient.
In Pics: Different moods of Katy Perry
Although there was no dearth of star power with megastar Amitabh Bachchan, Priyanka Chopra, Prabhu Deva attending the opening nite, it still drew a lacklustre response from the nearly 15,000 spectators who had gathered at theYMCA College of Physical Education.
Even the attempts by the hosts to cheer up the crowd failed to enthuse the audience who were subjected to a typical Bollywood style entertainment but without much verve and spirit.
Amitabh, returning to work after two abdominal surgeries earlier this year, started the proceedings for the evening with a rendition of a poem 'If I were to be born again', written by renowned lyricist Prasoon Joshi.
The 69-year-old veteran actor with his baritone voice and inimitable style hit the right chords but the dance performance choreographed by Shiamak Davar at the background was a dampener.
The rendition started to the ceremony, which set the stage for the 54-day extravaganza featuring nine teams who would be locked in a battle for the next two months.
South African percussion band First Project, composer DJ Ravi Drums and Colonial Cousins then took the stage and churned out their brand of music.
Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra then put her dancing shoes and performed to hit numbers from her
films such as 'Don', 'Don 2' and 'Kaminey', which even saw India spinner Harbhajan Singh shaking a leg along with her.
India's dancing sensation and Chennai's own Prabhu Deva then burned the dance floor with his performance where he danced to songs from films such as 'Wanted' and 'Hum Se Hai Muqablah'.
Two-time title winners, Chennai Super Kings then took the stage and Priyanka Chopra shared some light moments with the cricketers as she quizzed skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni and also taught Australian Doug Bollinger and Indian spinner R Ashwin some dancing steps.
The 'Chammak Challo' of the Tinsel town, Kareena Kapoor then performed her dance numbers from films such as 'Ra One' and the latest 'Agent Vinod'.
The opening nite then saw the oath taking ceremony by the skippers of the nine teams, including retired Rahul Dravid and Australian Adam Gilchrist, as they signed the MCC Spirit of Cricketpledge.
Defending champions CSK skipper Dhoni placed the trophy back on the podium and BCCIpresident N Srinivasan and IPL chairman Rajiv Shukla then joined the players on stage.
"IPL has grown from strength to strength and has established itself as a premiere tournament. BCCI is extremely proud of this achievement. But who is the cause? First the commitment of the players both international and domestic, who participated in the event, the enthusiasm of the franchises and assistance of the supporting stuffs and the cricket fans in India and around the world have contributed to its great success. We expect IPL 5 to be no less," Srinivasan said.
"We have not forgotten who played for us. The BCCI will give an one-time opportunity to cricketers who have graced Indian cricket -- International cricketer as well as domestic cricketers who played from a long time.
"Over 185 players will be benefited from it and we will start the distribution from this year. It is a small thank you from us to those who have done yeoman service to Indian cricket," he added.
Shukla then flagged off the fifth edition, saying: "It gives me a great pleasure to flag off the fifth edition of the DLF Indian Premier League, an arena where quality international and domestic cricketers take part in
intense contest of strategy and skill. IPL is a platform where talent meets opportunity."
Bollywood superstar Salman Khan then tried to set the stage ablaze with his 'Dhinka Chika' act from the film 'Ready', followed by performances to some foot-tapping numbers from 'Body Guard', 'Wanted', 'Partner' and 'Jab Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kiya' but his performance too lacked the punch.
After some Bollywood razzle-dazzle, Perry dished out a sumptuous musical treat and performed some of her superhits such as 'fireworks' and 'California Girls'.
The singer, who had tied the knot with now estranged husband Russell Brand, in India in 2010, was the star attraction of the evening and her maiden performance in the country, rounded off the evening.
Dazzling fireworks lit up the evening sky as the ceremony which lasted about two and a half hours came to end.
The main action will start from Wednesday when defending champions Chennai Super Kings starts their campaign against Champions Leagues title holder Mumbai Indians in the tournament opener at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.
Bollywood stars to sizzle at opening ceremony
Posted on APRIL 03, 2012
There's a real buzz in the air. Chennai doesn't get too frenetic when it comes to Bollywood stars, but when it comes packaged with cricket, things take a different turn.
The huge cut-out of Salman Khan at the YMCA ground, where the IPL opening ceremony will take place on Tuesday, says it all. The 'Bodyguard' is clearly the biggest attraction for the two-hour extravaganza, even though there's a Katy Perry who is promising 'Fireworks' for the event. "That's one number of mine that will go well with the mood of the event," Perry said.
Perry was supposed to arrive late on Monday and she will hit the stage for rehearsal on Tuesday morning. "I'm really excited! I know that everyone in India has waited for a very long time for me to come and perform professionally. I've enjoyed India on my own time personally, and now it's time to give back to the fans," said the pop-star, whose most famous number 'I kissed a girl' is quite a rage with the younger lot, who are waiting in earnest for the Tuesday bash.
Priyanka Chopra, Salman and Kareena, too are supposed to rehearse on Tuesday morning before they hit the stage. "Has he already come? Will he be performing Munni badnaam hui? And if he does, who'll play Munni on stage?" the fans trying to manage tickets for the Tuesday event kept asking.
The event has been taken out of the MA Chidambaram Stadium and the capacity at the YMCA ground is much lesser. The crowd here is a little disappointed with that, but the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association officials made it clear that "cricket comes first".
"With a match next day, there was no way we could have such a high-profile event at the Chepauk," an official said.
While the Salmans and Priyankas are like the T20 stars who don't believe in too many rehearsals, there's the Shehanshah of Bollywood who is going into this event with a lot of preparation. The opening ceremony starts with Amitabh Bachchan's poetry reading session and he will take the oath for the tournament.
The actor is taking his role extremely seriously and a source says, "Big B has been regularly visiting the inaugural venue in the past couple of days and rehearsing to ensure that it comes out well. In fact, on Sunday, he made a visit to the venue late in the night for his initial set of rehearsals and to check out the preparations."
Despite all his experience, the perfectionist is anxious. "All geared up technically... time for the butterflies in stomach to take flight," he tweeted.
The huge cut-out of Salman Khan at the YMCA ground, where the IPL opening ceremony will take place on Tuesday, says it all. The 'Bodyguard' is clearly the biggest attraction for the two-hour extravaganza, even though there's a Katy Perry who is promising 'Fireworks' for the event. "That's one number of mine that will go well with the mood of the event," Perry said.
Perry was supposed to arrive late on Monday and she will hit the stage for rehearsal on Tuesday morning. "I'm really excited! I know that everyone in India has waited for a very long time for me to come and perform professionally. I've enjoyed India on my own time personally, and now it's time to give back to the fans," said the pop-star, whose most famous number 'I kissed a girl' is quite a rage with the younger lot, who are waiting in earnest for the Tuesday bash.
Priyanka Chopra, Salman and Kareena, too are supposed to rehearse on Tuesday morning before they hit the stage. "Has he already come? Will he be performing Munni badnaam hui? And if he does, who'll play Munni on stage?" the fans trying to manage tickets for the Tuesday event kept asking.
The event has been taken out of the MA Chidambaram Stadium and the capacity at the YMCA ground is much lesser. The crowd here is a little disappointed with that, but the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association officials made it clear that "cricket comes first".
"With a match next day, there was no way we could have such a high-profile event at the Chepauk," an official said.
While the Salmans and Priyankas are like the T20 stars who don't believe in too many rehearsals, there's the Shehanshah of Bollywood who is going into this event with a lot of preparation. The opening ceremony starts with Amitabh Bachchan's poetry reading session and he will take the oath for the tournament.
The actor is taking his role extremely seriously and a source says, "Big B has been regularly visiting the inaugural venue in the past couple of days and rehearsing to ensure that it comes out well. In fact, on Sunday, he made a visit to the venue late in the night for his initial set of rehearsals and to check out the preparations."
Despite all his experience, the perfectionist is anxious. "All geared up technically... time for the butterflies in stomach to take flight," he tweeted.
Indian Premier League: the ills and benefits
Posted on APRIL 03, 2012
Perceptions about the Indian Premier League have a schizophrenic touch. It is either the spotlight-grabber for unheralded players like Swapnil Asnodkar and Paul Valthaty or it is fame's dark alley that leads you astray. As usual, truth is lost in the middle.
Since 2008, the league has unveiled frenzied chases and whipped up shrill debates about after-match parties. Amidst the cacophony, the IPL's few but fine contributions cannot be overlooked.
Exposure, money and camaraderie that briefly erases jingoism, are intrinsic to the league. A match-winning performance equally lures brand managers and selectors.
For instance, Shane Watson revived his international career thanks to his exploits with Rajasthan Royals. And the phenomenal money on offer helps lower middle-class lads afford flats in the central business districts of India's metros while also helping a Chris Gayle keep his home-fires burning during his recent spat with the West Indies Cricket Board.
Bolstering self-belief
Most importantly, the constant dismantling of inflationary run-rates has bolstered self-belief in batsmen. “When we have to chase 120 from 20 overs, we think it is no run,” Shakib al Hasan said recently in Dhaka.
The all-rounder was referring to the positive influence of his nation's latest indulgence — the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) — but those are words that hold true for the IPL too.
Ask men like Virat Kohli, who refuse to blink at a 300-plus score and it is obvious that the league has helped batsmen break targets into miniscule portions and take it one hurried step at a time.
A few years back, a picture of Mathew Hayden and Suresh Raina having a laugh and enjoying their play-station stints, did the rounds. It proved that their time with Chennai Super Kings had helped them leap across national divides.
Similiarly, warring rivals Shane Warne and Graeme Smith developed mutual respect while playing for Rajasthan Royals and the frost thawed a wee-bit when Harbhajan Singh and Andrew Symonds turned out for Mumbai Indians.
Distractions
The league though is not just about performance, money and feel-good friendships. It also tests a young player's ability to withstand the distractions of the fame-factory.
“It is important to stay grounded and not have a swollen head,” Sachin Tendulkar said at the party hosted by industrialist Mukesh Ambani. It is a line that holds good for some cricketers who lose their sanity in IPL's fancy frills.
Limelight often causes an athlete's first stumble and in his autobiography ‘Open', Andre Agassi wrote about his initial years: “I am an adolescent who has seen too much, a man-child without a checking account.”
Venkatesh Prasad, who has seamlessly moved from playing to coaching, observed: “The IPL is a fantastic opportunity for young cricketers but a true test of a player's ability is in the longer format of the game.
“There is a tendency among young players to think about playing in the IPL and then hoping that this will help them to play for the country.
“Youngsters should play first class cricket for a minimum of three years before they can think about playing for the country. There is also the glamour factor in IPL in which a player gets to rub shoulders with a Shah Rukh Khan.
“Name and fame is assured but that should not affect the bigger dream of playing for the country.”
The IPL has also chewed up the seasonal break during April and May in Indian cricket. Players are spreading themselves thin across all formats and with no off-season, a burnout is a lurking tragedy despite the altruistic expectations of cricket administrators to spread the game to nations like China and Morocco.
Until then relish your memories of the extended careers of men like Rahul Dravid and Tendulkar.
IPL 5 set for a gala opening
Posted on APRIL 02, 2012
A galaxy of stars, including Amitabh Bachchan and American pop star Katy Perry, will set the ball rolling for the fifth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) with a glittering opening ceremony that promises to enthral the audience here on Tuesday. High-octane Twenty20 cricket will get underway on April 4, promising excitement and entertainment for the audience in the next 54 days when nine teams featuring international stars and unheralded players will be competing.
Having proved its success in the past four editions with growing popularity, the Indian cricket board's money-spinning event will formally be launched with the IPL Opening Nite. The dazzling show will be graced by Bachchan and other Bollywood stars, including Priyanka Chopra, Kareena Kapoor and Salman Khan.
The gala ceremony at the YMCA College of Physical Education would also feature all the nine team captains taking the MCC Spirit of Cricket pledge. Although very little information has been shared on the opening ceremony, whose tickets start from Rs. 1,500, the evening is expected to provide a sumptuous feast of dance and music for the fans with Perry set to perform for the first time in India during the show, which will also have India's dancing sensation Prabhudeva.
The tournament proper will kick off on April 4 with the holders Chennai Super Kings taking on the last year Champions League Twenty20 winners Mumbai Indians in the inaugural match at the MA Chidambaram stadium. Mumbai captain Sachin Tendulkar will play for the first time before home fans after achieving the feat of 100 international centuries in the Asia Cup.
A total of 76 matches will be played at 12 venues across the country in the run-up to the finals on May 27 here. The league stage will comprise 72 ties with each team playing the other eight in a home-and-away format. The play-offs would be hosted by Bangalore and Chennai, the finalists from the previous edition.
The edition has been reduced to a nine-team affair after last-year entrants Kochi Tuskers Kerala were terminated by the BCCI in September last for a breach of terms of agreement. Expectedly, not many are daring to hazard a guess on the favourites to win the coveted trophy, though the MS Dhoni-led Chennai and Mumbai are in the forefront.
Kingfisher crisis: KFA staff urges RCB to boycott IPL
Posted on APRIL 02, 2012
The Kingfisher Airlines staff members who have not been paid their salaries for the past few months have written to the Royal Challengers Bangalore team urging the players to boycott the Indian Premier League (IPL) so that they get their dues. A section of Kingfisher pilots held a meeting in Delhi to decide the future plan of action.
Kingfisher Chairman Vijay Mallya has written to the employees saying the junior staff will be paid before Easter on April 4 and all pilots and engineers will be paid on April 9 and April 10.
However, Kingfisher employees have given an ultimatum to the management to disburse their salaries by Tuesday.
Kingfisher employees also protested against late salaries near the Mumbai airport on Monday.
Kingfisher has been closing down offices across India temporarily due to curtailment of flights from 64 aircraft to 16 aircraft.
Earlier, Kingfisher Airlines had decided to suspend all international flights from March 25 and further curtail domestic operations even as Government warned the ailing carrier that its flying licence could be cancelled if it failed to meet safety norms.
Kingfisher has a total debt of about Rs 7,000 crore and accumulated losses of about Rs 6,000 crore. The financial crunch has hit Kingfisher's operations with dozens of flights being cancelled.
Kingfisher Airlines agreed to pay only up to Rs 10 crore of its Rs 76-crore service tax dues this fiscal, a top Government official said.
"Kingfisher has dues to the tune of Rs 76 crore; we are talking to them. They will be depositing about Rs 10 crore this month," Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC) Chairman SK Goel said.
He said the Service Tax department has been freezing Kingfisher's bank accounts since October due to the non-payment. As of now it has frozen as many as 40 accounts.
Following is the full text of Vijay Mallya's letter to Kingfisher employees:
Dear Colleague
Further to my earlier mail and media statement, I am pleased to advise you that the formalities of un-freezing our bank accounts was completed yesterday following our payment of Rs 44 crores to the Income Tax and Rs 20 crores to the Service Tax authorities before March 31st.
My only focus now is to start paying your seriously overdue salaries.
All junior staff will be paid before Easter ie on Wednesday April 4th. All Pilots and Engineers will be paid on Monday April 9th and Tuesday April 10th.
For your kind information, we have 3 Bank holidays this coming week - April 2nd/5th and 6th.
We have managed to keep the lights on in our days of darkness with adversity from every conceivable direction.
The freeze of our accounts and consequent IATA suspension, the resultant loss of the BSP booking platform, the adverse media blitz and the loss of customer confidence are all serious challenges that we have survived.
All the credit goes to each one of you who have gone to great personal sacrifice for the best interests of your Company and your guests.
We need to re-build confidence and earn the trust from our guests back again. I have been overwhelmed with emotion to receive several mails from our King Club members expressing continuing loyalty and wishing that we quickly regain our position as India's single largest Airline. This will not be possible without your continued efforts, commitment and goodwill towards your Company.
Any flight disruptions and guest inconvenience will destroy all our efforts which is exactly what our competitors want and I suspect the media wants as well so as to satisfy their breaking news headlines. I appeal to you not to play into their hands.
Starting this week, I am going to be personally available at each major station for one day a week to listen to the concerns of all staff at all levels.
Despite all my other commitments to UB Companies, I am personally passionate about and committed to your Airline.
Please stand by me and strengthen my hands.
Let's fly with confidence. Let's not become fodder for media and competition to feed off. After all, we have pride and self respect.
I look forward to your continued commitment for which I am truly grateful.
Warm Regards
Vijay Mallya
Member of Parliament
Chairman and Managing Director
KINGFISHER AIRLINES LIMITED
A UB Group Company
Posted on APRIL 02, 2012
A galaxy of stars, including Amitabh Bachchan and American pop star Katy Perry, will set the ball rolling for the fifth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) with a glittering opening ceremony that promises to enthral the audience here on Tuesday. High-octane Twenty20 cricket will get underway on April 4, promising excitement and entertainment for the audience in the next 54 days when nine teams featuring international stars and unheralded players will be competing.
Having proved its success in the past four editions with growing popularity, the Indian cricket board's money-spinning event will formally be launched with the IPL Opening Nite. The dazzling show will be graced by Bachchan and other Bollywood stars, including Priyanka Chopra, Kareena Kapoor and Salman Khan.
The gala ceremony at the YMCA College of Physical Education would also feature all the nine team captains taking the MCC Spirit of Cricket pledge. Although very little information has been shared on the opening ceremony, whose tickets start from Rs. 1,500, the evening is expected to provide a sumptuous feast of dance and music for the fans with Perry set to perform for the first time in India during the show, which will also have India's dancing sensation Prabhudeva.
The tournament proper will kick off on April 4 with the holders Chennai Super Kings taking on the last year Champions League Twenty20 winners Mumbai Indians in the inaugural match at the MA Chidambaram stadium. Mumbai captain Sachin Tendulkar will play for the first time before home fans after achieving the feat of 100 international centuries in the Asia Cup.
A total of 76 matches will be played at 12 venues across the country in the run-up to the finals on May 27 here. The league stage will comprise 72 ties with each team playing the other eight in a home-and-away format. The play-offs would be hosted by Bangalore and Chennai, the finalists from the previous edition.
The edition has been reduced to a nine-team affair after last-year entrants Kochi Tuskers Kerala were terminated by the BCCI in September last for a breach of terms of agreement. Expectedly, not many are daring to hazard a guess on the favourites to win the coveted trophy, though the MS Dhoni-led Chennai and Mumbai are in the forefront.
Kingfisher crisis: KFA staff urges RCB to boycott IPL
Posted on APRIL 02, 2012
The Kingfisher Airlines staff members who have not been paid their salaries for the past few months have written to the Royal Challengers Bangalore team urging the players to boycott the Indian Premier League (IPL) so that they get their dues. A section of Kingfisher pilots held a meeting in Delhi to decide the future plan of action.
Kingfisher Chairman Vijay Mallya has written to the employees saying the junior staff will be paid before Easter on April 4 and all pilots and engineers will be paid on April 9 and April 10.
However, Kingfisher employees have given an ultimatum to the management to disburse their salaries by Tuesday.
Kingfisher employees also protested against late salaries near the Mumbai airport on Monday.
Kingfisher has been closing down offices across India temporarily due to curtailment of flights from 64 aircraft to 16 aircraft.
Earlier, Kingfisher Airlines had decided to suspend all international flights from March 25 and further curtail domestic operations even as Government warned the ailing carrier that its flying licence could be cancelled if it failed to meet safety norms.
Kingfisher has a total debt of about Rs 7,000 crore and accumulated losses of about Rs 6,000 crore. The financial crunch has hit Kingfisher's operations with dozens of flights being cancelled.
Kingfisher Airlines agreed to pay only up to Rs 10 crore of its Rs 76-crore service tax dues this fiscal, a top Government official said.
"Kingfisher has dues to the tune of Rs 76 crore; we are talking to them. They will be depositing about Rs 10 crore this month," Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC) Chairman SK Goel said.
He said the Service Tax department has been freezing Kingfisher's bank accounts since October due to the non-payment. As of now it has frozen as many as 40 accounts.
Following is the full text of Vijay Mallya's letter to Kingfisher employees:
Dear Colleague
Further to my earlier mail and media statement, I am pleased to advise you that the formalities of un-freezing our bank accounts was completed yesterday following our payment of Rs 44 crores to the Income Tax and Rs 20 crores to the Service Tax authorities before March 31st.
My only focus now is to start paying your seriously overdue salaries.
All junior staff will be paid before Easter ie on Wednesday April 4th. All Pilots and Engineers will be paid on Monday April 9th and Tuesday April 10th.
For your kind information, we have 3 Bank holidays this coming week - April 2nd/5th and 6th.
We have managed to keep the lights on in our days of darkness with adversity from every conceivable direction.
The freeze of our accounts and consequent IATA suspension, the resultant loss of the BSP booking platform, the adverse media blitz and the loss of customer confidence are all serious challenges that we have survived.
All the credit goes to each one of you who have gone to great personal sacrifice for the best interests of your Company and your guests.
We need to re-build confidence and earn the trust from our guests back again. I have been overwhelmed with emotion to receive several mails from our King Club members expressing continuing loyalty and wishing that we quickly regain our position as India's single largest Airline. This will not be possible without your continued efforts, commitment and goodwill towards your Company.
Any flight disruptions and guest inconvenience will destroy all our efforts which is exactly what our competitors want and I suspect the media wants as well so as to satisfy their breaking news headlines. I appeal to you not to play into their hands.
Starting this week, I am going to be personally available at each major station for one day a week to listen to the concerns of all staff at all levels.
Despite all my other commitments to UB Companies, I am personally passionate about and committed to your Airline.
Please stand by me and strengthen my hands.
Let's fly with confidence. Let's not become fodder for media and competition to feed off. After all, we have pride and self respect.
I look forward to your continued commitment for which I am truly grateful.
Warm Regards
Vijay Mallya
Member of Parliament
Chairman and Managing Director
KINGFISHER AIRLINES LIMITED
A UB Group Company
Harbhajan to become Mumbai Indians captain
Posted on APRIL 02, 2012
Sachin Tendulkar today decided to hand over the captaincy of Mumbai Indians in the fifth edition of IPL to Harbhajan Singh following a discussion with the management of Mumbai Indians.
"Sachin Tendulkar in discussion with the management of Mumbai Indians has decided to hand over the responsibilities of captaining Mumbai Indians in Season V of the Indian Premier League to ace off spinner Harbhajan Singh," a press release issued by Mumbai Indians stated.
"The Mumbai Indians is more than a team. It is like a family to me. At this point of time, I feel I need a break from the responsibility of captaincy of the Mumbai Indians.
After due consideration, I discussed my intention to hand over the Captainship of the team to Harbhajan Singh, with Mukeshbhai and Nitabhabhi," Tendulkar was quoted in the media release.
Tendulkar further stated, "I was touched by the graciousness and wholehearted support they offered me while emphasising that they would accept any decision which helps me to continue enjoying the game. Harbhajan will have my wholehearted support as the senior most player in the team."
Mumbai Indians owner Nita Ambani termed it as a "difficult moment when Sachin expressed his desire to relinquish the captaincy."
"But we believe that Sachin is the best judge on such matters and hence, as always, we fully support his decison. I have learnt a lot during the last three seasons working with Sachin closely. Sachin is the soul of Mumbai Indians, and I am sure he will guide Bhajji as he takes on the responsibility of captaining Mumbai Indians," Nita Ambani said.
Harbhajan termed this as a "huge honour" as he thanked Sachin and Mrs Ambani for entrusting this responsibility. "Sachin paaji spoke to me about his decision of wanting me to take over the responsibility of the team. It is huge
honour and I thank Paaji and Nita Bhabhi for the faith reposed in my abilities", he said.
honour and I thank Paaji and Nita Bhabhi for the faith reposed in my abilities", he said.
"Mumbai Indians is a great team with explosive talent and promising youngsters. I am committed to do the very best and look forward to leading the team to play to its full potential during the season," Harbhajan added.
Michael Clarke in talks to join IPL franchise the Pune Warriors
Posted on MARCH 24, 2012
MICHAEL Clarke has confirmed he's in talks to join IPL franchise the Pune Warriors.
Clarke has so far resisted the lure of playing in the rich competition but came close in 2009 before withdrawing from the IPL auction to focus on playing for Australia.
Pune captain Sourav Ganguly has stated publicly the Warriors were on the verge of snaring the Australian captain and on Sunday Clarke confirmed he was in talks.
"That opportunity has been presented to my management company and I," Clarke said.
"Right now they're discussing it. We will continue to talk about that and make a decision in due course.
"But my focus right now is to make sure I get back and play some good cricket for Australia."
He didn't nominate for this season's auction, but the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has given the green light for Pune to sign players outside this method.
Clarke, who retired from T20 internationals in January last year, headed to the Caribbean on Sunday for Australia's Test series with West Indies after overcoming a hamstring injury.
Australia's tour of the West Indies means Clarke's availability will be limited.
The fifth season of the IPL starts on April 5, while the Caribbean Test series is scheduled to end on April 27.
The Pune Warriors will have a total of seven matches left in the IPL's regular season after April 27.
Ganguly, allrounders the key for Pune
Posted on MARCH 24, 2012
Before putting our analytical brains to Pune Warriors India's 2012 prospects, a word for their topmost warrior, Yuvraj Singh. Down but getting back up fast, Yuvraj is recuperating in the USA from an unfortunate malignant illness. And while the team will definitely feel hollow in his absence, it could also lift them to do what Yuvraj dreamt of but couldn't in the team's debut season last year - winning the silverware.
Name: Pune Warriors India
Coach/Mentor: Sourav Ganguly
Owner: Sahara India Pariwar
Cost of team: $370 million
Key players: Sourav Ganguly – Pune's captain-cum-mentor – is followed wherever he goes. Being India's most successful skipper and doubling up as the franchise’s mentor, Ganguly commands respect. If he can back his elevation as skipper with runs off the bat, Pune could be a force to reckon with; however, that's where Ganguly's real test lies as well, at 39.
Robin Uthappa – who has been recalled into India's Twenty20 squad – has to be the lynchpin. Performing the dual role of wicketkeeper-batsman, Uthappa can be the team's energizer – either at the top or as a finisher. If he bats lower down, which is the likely scenario, Pune will bank on South African Test captain Graeme Smith for hard-hitting starts, something Smith failed to do consistently last season.
Ashish Nehra's top form in the Ranji Trophy season [14 wickets in three Elite Division matches] certainly confirms him as the leader of Pune's bowling attack. On the spin front, the legspinner Rahul Sharma and old pro Murali Karthik will be pivotal in keeping a lid on the scoring in the middle overs. Sharma was one of the very few bright spots for Pune in IPL4 and owes his entry into India's limited-overs squad to the tournament.
Strengths: Undoubtedly the allrounders. Nathan McCullum, Angelo Mathews [subject to fitness], Wayne Parnell, Marlon Samuels, Steven Smith and Luke Wright are names that can walk into any Twenty20 team. The fact that Pune can play five foreign players in lieu of Yuvraj's absence allows them to field five of these allrounders in every match. However, the absence of James Hopes, who on Saturday was ruled out of the IPL due to a knee injury, is a big blow.
Weaknesses: The team almost walked out of IPL 5 after a spat with the BCCI over the non-acceptance of their demand to add Yuvraj's price to their auction purse. Resultantly, the franchise boycotted the auction and missed out on some key players, which could prove vital in where they finish this season. Also, being the newest IPL team, their cohesiveness – or the lack of it – pushes them back in the starting grid of IPL 5.
2011 performance: Pune finished just above wooden-spooners Delhi Daredevils in the 10-team IPL 4. Of the 14 games last season, they could manage to win only four, while losing nine before a no result in the last league game against Delhi. Even though Pune started the season with two back-to-back wins, Nehra's absence due to injury and lack of coordination in the newly put-together team led to their undoing.
2012 prospects: Pune's fortunes will depend on how confident the team is after the franchise almost left the players in the lurch following its decision to pull out. Ganguly's moves will be critically followed. If he can inspire a couple of wins at the outset, there will be nothing like it for Pune. That won't only help him prove his worth in the team but will also keep his troops on their toes. However, Pune's spine in IPL 5 will have to be its crop of allrounders. Even if three of them can hit form early, the side will be in with a very good chance to make it to the play-offs.
IPL 2012: Kings XI Punjab launches new logo
Posted on MARCH 24, 2012
Kings XI Punjab on Saturday unveiled its new logo ahead of the fifth edition of the Indian Premier League, which commences on April 4 in Chennai.
The new Kings XI is all about winning, a determination reflecting in every aspect of the franchise's new logo. The shield signifies the strength of character and fortitude of the conqueror - the qualities entrenched in each player of KXIP, said a press release from the franchise.
The new logo reflects the qualities of the team and its fans - young, vibrant and ready to conquer the world.
"This new look logo is more vibrant, contemporary and user friendly. It embodies the essence of the ethos that Kings XI Punjab stands for," said Col Arvinder Singh, COO, Kings XI Punjab.
Like the lions in the logo, the team will fight a fierce battle and prove to be the Kings of the IPL jungle. The KJHPH band in the logo represents Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal, Punjab and Haryana and symbolises the effervescent and resilient spirit of the people of these regions.
Last but not the least, the Kings XI Punjab in the centre represents the XI players who will take the field by storm in true Punjabi style and emerge as winners with a positive and enterprising attitude.
The new logo reflects the qualities of the team and its fans - young, vibrant and ready to conquer the world.
"This new look logo is more vibrant, contemporary and user friendly. It embodies the essence of the ethos that Kings XI Punjab stands for," said Col Arvinder Singh, COO, Kings XI Punjab.
Like the lions in the logo, the team will fight a fierce battle and prove to be the Kings of the IPL jungle. The KJHPH band in the logo represents Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal, Punjab and Haryana and symbolises the effervescent and resilient spirit of the people of these regions.
Last but not the least, the Kings XI Punjab in the centre represents the XI players who will take the field by storm in true Punjabi style and emerge as winners with a positive and enterprising attitude.
IPL 2012: Setback for Pune, knee injury rules Hopes out
Posted on MARCH 24, 2012
Australian all-rounder James Hopes has been ruled out of the upcoming IPL due to a knee injury, dealing a blow to Pune Warriors' preparations for the fifth edition of the cash-rich league.
The Warriors bought Hopes from Delhi Daredevils last month only, and was the only overseas player the franchise had signed this season apart from West Indies' Marlon Samuels.
Hopes' absence means Warriors now have two foreign players' slots left to fill after the IPL governing council allowed the franchise an extra foreigner this season to make up for the absence of the injured Yuvraj Singh.
Hopes recently led Queensland to the Sheffield Shield title with a half-century in the first innings and a five-wicket haul in the second.
The Warriors were reportedly in talks with Michael Clarke recently, the Australian captain coming in as a possible replacement for Yuvraj.
IPL bemoans scheduling mess
Posted on MARCH 24, 2012
The Indian Premier League (IPL), till now blamed for disrupting the India players' focus on national team duty, has been left silently cursing the cricket board for agreeing to play in a Twenty20 international against South Africa four days before the tournament kicks off.
Seven of the nine franchises have players in the squad. They are upset after the preparatory camps of some wore a deserted look with players featuring in the 4-day Syed Mushtaq Ali Twenty20 tournament, which started in Mumbai on Friday, also absent. The T20 in Johannesburg on March 31 is to commemorate 150 years of Indians settlers in South Africa.
It is not just the India stars who are missing from the camp, crucial for planning before the tournament begins on April 4. Many foreign stars are also away. South Africa's New Zealand tour ends just before the league starts while Australia's Caribbean tour will continue well into the event.
"The T20 has also held back South African players like Richard Levi and Robin Petersen. Rohit Sharma will also play in the match," a Mumbai Indians official, who did wish to be named, said. The MI camp started at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday with just around 10 players and a couple of prominent names like RP Singh and Ambati Rayudu. Two more players left the camp on Thursday to join their state sides for the Mushtaq Ali Tournament.
As if this mess wasn't enough, the BCCI has also scheduled the felicitation for the just-retired Rahul Dravid, also the Rajasthan Royals skipper, in Mumbai on Tuesday. The entire India squad members and other prominent players, past and current, are scheduled to attend.
An official from Kolkata Knight Riders, led by Gautam Gambhir and with India players Yusuf Pathan and Manoj Tiwary in their ranks, pointed out the hopeless situation. "See, all major teams are in the middle of some series," said the official, who didn't want to be named. "It's difficult to say whether their absence will affect the IPL preparations, but at least they are in practice," he added. KKR, whose camp began on Friday, are not sure when Gambhir will join the team.
The India squad will return from South Africa on Mar. 31. All captains - there are three in the India squad - will have to be in Chennai during the opening ceremony on April 3 before joining their respective sides.
White to represent DC on Opening Nite
Skipper Sangakkara will be absent due to national commitments
Posted on MARCH 23, 2012
The nine teams participating in DLF IPL 2012 have announced their captains who will represent them on the IPL Opening Nite on April 3 in Chennai. All teams except the Deccan Chargers will be represented by the captains they have named in their registered squads for the season.
The Chargers have nominated Cameron White to do the honours in the absence of their regular skipper, Kumar Sangakkara, who will be playing a home Test series against England at the time. The Sri Lankan will join the team after fulfilling his national commitments.
Following are the names of the captains who will be present at the IPL Opening Nite to kick-start IPL 2012 and pledge their allegiance to the MCC Spirit of Cricket:
Chennai Super Kings: MS Dhoni
Deccan Chargers: Cameron White
Delhi Daredevils: Virender Sehwag
Kings XI Punjab: Adam Gilchrist
Kolkata Knight Riders: Gautam Gambhir
Mumbai Indians: Sachin Tendulkar
Pune Warriors India: Sourav Ganguly
Rajasthan Royals: Rahul Dravid
Royal Challengers Bangalore: Daniel Vettori
The Chargers have nominated Cameron White to do the honours in the absence of their regular skipper, Kumar Sangakkara, who will be playing a home Test series against England at the time. The Sri Lankan will join the team after fulfilling his national commitments.
Following are the names of the captains who will be present at the IPL Opening Nite to kick-start IPL 2012 and pledge their allegiance to the MCC Spirit of Cricket:
Chennai Super Kings: MS Dhoni
Deccan Chargers: Cameron White
Delhi Daredevils: Virender Sehwag
Kings XI Punjab: Adam Gilchrist
Kolkata Knight Riders: Gautam Gambhir
Mumbai Indians: Sachin Tendulkar
Pune Warriors India: Sourav Ganguly
Rajasthan Royals: Rahul Dravid
Royal Challengers Bangalore: Daniel Vettori
Katy Perry to perform at IPL Opening Nite
Grammy award-winner joins list of celeb performers
Posted on MARCH 20, 2012
Snap, crackle and Pop. It’s time to uncork another sparkling edition of DLF IPL. And this year, it’s going to be an unforgettable opening bash with Katy Perry joining the party. The DLF IPL Opening Nite will be held at the YMCA Grounds, Chennai, on April 3, 2012.
Katy Perry fulfilled her ‘Teenage Dream’, set the trend for ‘California Gurls’, and became Pop’s biggest ‘Firework’. All this while being ‘One Of The Boys’.
Katy Perry, the international musical sensation, shows the boys how it’s done before they speed away into a new season of DLF IPL. Having ruled the music charts and won every prestigious award from the Billboard to the Brit, the pop princess is all set to storm the DLF IPL 2012 Opening Nite, an evening that will set the tone for a summer of high-quality cricket.
Having toured around the world and now making her debut performance in India, Katy will help flag off the latest season of the world’s favourite cricketing league in her trademark style. The International Pop Star flaunts a unique mix of talent, spirit and innovation, reflective of the tournament that has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
“We look forward to Ms. Perry’s participation at the DLF IPL 2012 Opening Nite. A performer of her calibre makes the occasion even more special for the IPL family – players, organisers and fans. The verve and originality of her music matches that of the competition and we look forward to an inspired performance from her,” IPL Chairman, Rajeev Shukla, said about the star’s much-anticipated act.
About DLF IPL
· The DLF IPL 2012, to be held between April 4 and May 27, will feature 76 games across 12 venues across the country
· The DLF IPL became one of the fastest growing sports businesses in the world soon after its inception in 2008. It has been called the ‘World’s hottest sporting league’ by Forbes Magazine.
· The league is made up of nine franchises featuring top international cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Kevin Pietersen, Jacques Kallis, Shane Watson, Kumar Sangakkara and others.
· The IPL offers USD 2 million as prize money to the winning team and USD 1.5 million to the runners-up, making it one of the world’s most lucrative sporting leagues
· IPL franchises are owned by some of the biggest names in Indian industry, backed by respected professionals who manage and mentor the teams
· IPL has rewritten TV history, combining sport with entertainment to gather staggering ratings right through its four previous seasons
About Katy PerryKaty Perry is a global superstar whose two albums have generated a string of #1 hit singles and multi-platinum sales during the past four years. She has just concluded her sold-out "California Dreams Tour” with 124 arena performances internationally. The special edition Teenage Dream: The Complete Confection will be in stores March 26th and features 3 new songs, including "Part Of Me," which debuted at #1 on iTunes in the United States, with over 400,000 downloads in its first week, after an electrifying performance at this year's Grammy Awards.
Katy Perry fulfilled her ‘Teenage Dream’, set the trend for ‘California Gurls’, and became Pop’s biggest ‘Firework’. All this while being ‘One Of The Boys’.
Katy Perry, the international musical sensation, shows the boys how it’s done before they speed away into a new season of DLF IPL. Having ruled the music charts and won every prestigious award from the Billboard to the Brit, the pop princess is all set to storm the DLF IPL 2012 Opening Nite, an evening that will set the tone for a summer of high-quality cricket.
Having toured around the world and now making her debut performance in India, Katy will help flag off the latest season of the world’s favourite cricketing league in her trademark style. The International Pop Star flaunts a unique mix of talent, spirit and innovation, reflective of the tournament that has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
“We look forward to Ms. Perry’s participation at the DLF IPL 2012 Opening Nite. A performer of her calibre makes the occasion even more special for the IPL family – players, organisers and fans. The verve and originality of her music matches that of the competition and we look forward to an inspired performance from her,” IPL Chairman, Rajeev Shukla, said about the star’s much-anticipated act.
About DLF IPL
· The DLF IPL 2012, to be held between April 4 and May 27, will feature 76 games across 12 venues across the country
· The DLF IPL became one of the fastest growing sports businesses in the world soon after its inception in 2008. It has been called the ‘World’s hottest sporting league’ by Forbes Magazine.
· The league is made up of nine franchises featuring top international cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Kevin Pietersen, Jacques Kallis, Shane Watson, Kumar Sangakkara and others.
· The IPL offers USD 2 million as prize money to the winning team and USD 1.5 million to the runners-up, making it one of the world’s most lucrative sporting leagues
· IPL franchises are owned by some of the biggest names in Indian industry, backed by respected professionals who manage and mentor the teams
· IPL has rewritten TV history, combining sport with entertainment to gather staggering ratings right through its four previous seasons
About Katy PerryKaty Perry is a global superstar whose two albums have generated a string of #1 hit singles and multi-platinum sales during the past four years. She has just concluded her sold-out "California Dreams Tour” with 124 arena performances internationally. The special edition Teenage Dream: The Complete Confection will be in stores March 26th and features 3 new songs, including "Part Of Me," which debuted at #1 on iTunes in the United States, with over 400,000 downloads in its first week, after an electrifying performance at this year's Grammy Awards.
Prabhu Deva To Perform In IPL-5 Opening Ceremony
Posted on MARCH 19, 2012
The choreographer-actor-filmmaker Prabhu Deva, is a truly phenomenon and often referred as Indian Michael Jackson. He is all set to steal everyone’s attention at the Opening Nite ceremony of the fifth edition of Indian Premier League which will be held at YMCA grounds in Chennai on April 3. It is his birthday on the same day, April 3.
A reliable source from the Chennai Teams says that the dancer, Prabhu Deva, will be performing live at the opening ceremony which will start up the fifth season of the Indian premier League (IPL)
The ceremony which used to take place earlier in Chepauk Grounds, will be held in YMCA grounds in Chennai, this year, where a hi-tech stage is getting set for this special event
Prabhu Deva confirmed the news to media, on his performance at the Opening Nite of IPL. He said, “I feel great to take part in the prestigious event, IPL opening ceremony. I will be performing for the medley of some Hindi and Tamil super hit songs for this high-profile event. I haven’t chosen the songs yet to rehearse for.”
Another highlight about this performance is Bollywood actors Salman Khan and Priyanka Chopra will join Prabhu for the finale segment of the performance.
Looks like the IPL opening ceremony seems to rock with this star filled affair!
IPL 2012 Schedule: Match time table with ground details
Posted on MARCH 19, 2012
Indian Premier League (IPL) 2012 will be played at 12 venues over 54 days in India. Starting from April 4, 2012 to May 27, 2012 there will be 72 matches in the fifth season of IPL. The preliminary schedule has the nine franchises (teams) playing in this fifth edition.
Bollywood stars Salman Khan and Priyanka Chopra are set to be a part of the Indian Premier League's opening ceremony to be held at YMCA College of Physical Education on April 3. Apart from Bollywood stars, the 'Opening Nite' will also feature performance from a leading international artist, an IPL release stated.
The opening ceremony will begin at 7:30 pm, however, the venue gates will be thrown open to the audience from 5:00 pm.
The event will also feature all nine team captains taking the MCC Spirit of Cricket pledge, which has been on display since the competition's inception in 2008.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) organisers have tweaked the schedule of the fifth edition of the Twenty20 tournament because of the upcoming Municipal Elections in the Capital in mid April.
According to the new schedule, Delhi Daredevils will now lock horns with Deccan Chargers on April 19 instead of April 14 at the Ferozh Shah Kotla stadium.
The Qualifier 1 play-off match will feature the teams that finished the regular season in first and second place, while the eliminator play-offs will feature the sides that finished the regular season in third and fourth place.As previously announced, the M A Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai will host the Qualifier 2 play-off match and the final.
Chennai Super Kings will play Mumbai Indians in the opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2012 on April 4, at M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. Time table of IPL 2012 - Season 5 with schedule, venue & ground details is given below.
IPL teams' rivalry spills over Facebook, Twitter
Posted on MARCH 19, 2012
The rivalry between IPL teams is spilling over to the social media platform ahead of the season five of the T20 league as they intensify campaigns to drum up support of fans through sites like Facebook and Twitter.
With the social networking sites providing the opportunity to fans to interact with their star players, teams like Delhi Daredevils, Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings are leaving no stone unturned to exploit the opportunity to add more supporters.
"Social media is one of the most important tools and an integral part of any team to reach out to the fans now. We have been stagnant for the past four years but this year we have really activated it," Delhi Daredevils Head of Marketing and Commercial Hemant Dua told PTI.
He said from just about 30,000 fans on Facebook for the past four years, Delhi Daredevils has increased it to 2,30,000 in the last few months.
"We have been holding a lot of contests for the fans, like designing the mascot for the team, and it has helped," Dua said, adding this year three fans will be selected through a contest to travel with the team to report on the team's off-field activities.
Similarly, Chennai Super Kings has touched over seven lakh followers on its Facebook page over the past two months from just 40,000 earlier following intensified campaign to utilise the social media platform
"What we have done is assign different roles to different sites. For instance we are using Twitter for news related to the team, while Facebook has been used as platform for interaction.
Also we are using different activities involving fans, including contests," India Cements general Manager Marketing Chandrabhan said. India Cements own the Chennai Super Kings. Likewise, Mumbai Indians has also kicked off 'Players Become Friends' campaign designed to increase the interaction between the players and the fans in the digital space.
"This year our focus is completely on digital media. We will be having a new TV commercial and ground promotions for IPL 5 but the main thrust is to capitalise on the social platform to reach out to Mumbai Indians fans and make them feel as an integral part of the team," a Mumbai Indian spokesperson said.
Mumbai Indians have nearly 2.5 million followers on Facebook fan page 'MI Paltan', he said, adding the aim of the campaign is to encourage them engaging with the players rather than being mere spectators.
The team is also using personalised video messages from Mumbai Indians players, includingSachin Tendulkar and Harbhajan Singh, as part of the 'Players Become Friends' social media campaign that will carried out on out-of-home and radio along with TV, he added.
While the teams are reluctant to share their spendings on the social media campaigns, Dua of Delhi Daredevils said:"Our spending on digital media has definitely increased, to almost double but it is all about spending judiciously and trying to make the right connect with the fans."
| Tax rise for foreign entertainers, sportspersons may affect IPL |
| Doubling of tax to 20% in Budget 2012-13 would dent the income of foreign actors, musicians and sportspersons
Posted on MARCH 19, 2012
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Foreign actors, musicians, sports personalities including Indian Premier League (IPL) players, and even producers may be part of a growing tribe that is attracted to the country’s booming entertainment industry. But now they are set to see a dent in their earnings in India, after the Union government proposed to double their tax to 20 per cent.
“This will have implications on foreign sportspersons taking part in IPL, World Series Hockey and other sports league which have started in the last few years,” said Rakesh Jariwala, partner & tax expert, M&E, Ernst & Young. “Even overseas artists who participate in TV shows, films and advertisement commercials will be burdened with this.”
This Budget proposal, which will come into effect from this July 1, says “income arising to a non-citizen, non-resident entertainer (such as theatre, radio or television artists and musicians) from performance in India shall be taxable at the rate of 20 per cent of gross receipts.”
Globally also, in countries like Germany, Sweden and the UK, similar tax rates exists for both entertainers and sportspersons, ranging from 10-30 per cent or the income being taxed under cultural tax.
According to several IPL team owners, as far as cricketers are concerned it will be up to the respective franchisees on how they pay salaries and how these deductions will be done respect to the tax. Said an IPL team official: “With some players, we have contracts for period of two-three years whose fees have already been fixed and salaries are paid in three to four installments during the year.”
For other sports like football and hockey leagues, the impact may be not high. “The earnings of these hockey players are not that high as of cricket,” said Harish Thawani, founder and CEO of Nimbus.
In the past few years, there has been a flurry of events in India which might have prompted the government to increase the tax rates. In the last three years, several sports events like IPL, Formula Race and WSH have come into the picture.
Also the entertainment industry has provided huge opportunities for foreign celebrities in terms of films, reality shows and music industry. In addition, the country saw the performances of American singer Lady Gaga, Akon, heavy metal band Metallica and house music producer and DJ David Guetta in the past one year.
However, entertainment industry officials feel more than artists and IPL players, harder hit will be the companies, music labels, studios and brands that get the artiste in India.
“Most of these artists and sportsperson have fixed fees or net amounts to be paid for an appearance or a performance,” pointed out Indranil Das Blah, COO at Kwan Entertainment and Marketing Solutions. “It will be up to various brands how they would pay these fees, as they will have to shell out more so the artists earnings do not have any implications.”
According to Devraj Sanyal, managing director (India), Saarc, of the Universal Music Group, most companies will now think twice before getting big international artists here. “The only way to get them here is by paying a higher gross amount,” he said. This would ensure that the net fees is not reduced or that one “just gets an artists who charges less or work with an Indian artist for gigs”. The company’s leading artists includes Lady Gaga, Bryan Adams, Metallica, Bon Jovi, Abba, Queen and Rolling Stones.
Foreign actors, musicians, sports personalities including Indian Premier League (IPL) players, and even producers may be part of a growing tribe that is attracted to the country’s booming entertainment industry. But now they are set to see a dent in their earnings in India, after the Union government proposed to double their tax to 20 per cent.
“This will have implications on foreign sportspersons taking part in IPL, World Series Hockey and other sports league which have started in the last few years,” said Rakesh Jariwala, partner & tax expert, M&E, Ernst & Young. “Even overseas artists who participate in TV shows, films and advertisement commercials will be burdened with this.”
This Budget proposal, which will come into effect from this July 1, says “income arising to a non-citizen, non-resident entertainer (such as theatre, radio or television artists and musicians) from performance in India shall be taxable at the rate of 20 per cent of gross receipts.”
According to several IPL team owners, as far as cricketers are concerned it will be up to the respective franchisees on how they pay salaries and how these deductions will be done respect to the tax. Said an IPL team official: “With some players, we have contracts for period of two-three years whose fees have already been fixed and salaries are paid in three to four installments during the year.”
For other sports like football and hockey leagues, the impact may be not high. “The earnings of these hockey players are not that high as of cricket,” said Harish Thawani, founder and CEO of Nimbus.
In the past few years, there has been a flurry of events in India which might have prompted the government to increase the tax rates. In the last three years, several sports events like IPL, Formula Race and WSH have come into the picture.
Also the entertainment industry has provided huge opportunities for foreign celebrities in terms of films, reality shows and music industry. In addition, the country saw the performances of American singer Lady Gaga, Akon, heavy metal band Metallica and house music producer and DJ David Guetta in the past one year.
However, entertainment industry officials feel more than artists and IPL players, harder hit will be the companies, music labels, studios and brands that get the artiste in India.
“Most of these artists and sportsperson have fixed fees or net amounts to be paid for an appearance or a performance,” pointed out Indranil Das Blah, COO at Kwan Entertainment and Marketing Solutions. “It will be up to various brands how they would pay these fees, as they will have to shell out more so the artists earnings do not have any implications.”
According to Devraj Sanyal, managing director (India), Saarc, of the Universal Music Group, most companies will now think twice before getting big international artists here. “The only way to get them here is by paying a higher gross amount,” he said. This would ensure that the net fees is not reduced or that one “just gets an artists who charges less or work with an Indian artist for gigs”. The company’s leading artists includes Lady Gaga, Bryan Adams, Metallica, Bon Jovi, Abba, Queen and Rolling Stones.
Richard Levi wants to master Indian conditions
Posted on MARCH 12, 2012
When Richard Levi's name was called out at the IPL auction in February, there was silence. Despite a base price of just $50,000, there were no takers for the 24-year-old South African. But all that changed a little over two weeks later, after Levi bludgeoned his way into the record books for South Africa against New Zealand in Hamilton. He hit 13 sixes - the most ever in a Twenty20 innings - on his way to a hundred from 45 balls, also a record for men's cricket. He would finish with an unbeaten 117 from 51 balls in just his second international innings. It was an assault so brutal that South Africa's run-rate rarely dropped below 10 after the first over.
Levi said he wasn't disappointed at not being picked in the auction because he only had "one or two good seasons of Twenty20". In fact, he was surprised he made it to the final auction list at all. Following his assault on the hapless New Zealand bowlers though, it was no surprise that he became a hot commodity, with Mumbai Indians and Pune Warriors, the two teams with vacant spots in their squad, chasing his signature. In the end, he opted for Mumbai Indians and the chance to open the batting with Sachin Tendulkar.
"I think it is going to be amazing," Levi told ESPNcricinfo. "They [the crowd] won't be cheering for me, they will be cheering for their 'little master', but I think it's going to be amazing ... I think the first time I do it, it could be a bit of a shock. I might have big eyes and that sort of stuff but it is going to be amazing to walk out and see a crowd that passionate and wanting you to do well."
Mumbai Indians have struggled to find an opening partner for Tendulkar in the IPL, with a number of contenders being rotated in and out of the side over the past four years. The potential impact of a destructive opener was plain to see in 2011, when Chris Gayle almost single-handedly turned Royal Challengers Bangalore's season around and marched them into the finals. It was one of Gayle's specials in the second play-off game that knocked Mumbai out of the tournament as well.
Levi's hundred drew comparisons to Gayle and he is confident he can be the attacking opener his team needs. The key, he said, will be how fast he can adapt to playing in Indian conditions, though he already has an edge in that regard, having played in last year's Champions League Twenty20 with the Cape Cobras. That event taught Levi to be more patient on wickets that are slower than the ones in South Africa and where the ball doesn't bounce as much. Learning how to train in hot conditions and managing his body for the rigours of the seven-week tournament will also be crucial to his chances of succeeding in the IPL.
Levi said he wasn't disappointed at not being picked in the auction because he only had "one or two good seasons of Twenty20". In fact, he was surprised he made it to the final auction list at all. Following his assault on the hapless New Zealand bowlers though, it was no surprise that he became a hot commodity, with Mumbai Indians and Pune Warriors, the two teams with vacant spots in their squad, chasing his signature. In the end, he opted for Mumbai Indians and the chance to open the batting with Sachin Tendulkar.
"I think it is going to be amazing," Levi told ESPNcricinfo. "They [the crowd] won't be cheering for me, they will be cheering for their 'little master', but I think it's going to be amazing ... I think the first time I do it, it could be a bit of a shock. I might have big eyes and that sort of stuff but it is going to be amazing to walk out and see a crowd that passionate and wanting you to do well."
Mumbai Indians have struggled to find an opening partner for Tendulkar in the IPL, with a number of contenders being rotated in and out of the side over the past four years. The potential impact of a destructive opener was plain to see in 2011, when Chris Gayle almost single-handedly turned Royal Challengers Bangalore's season around and marched them into the finals. It was one of Gayle's specials in the second play-off game that knocked Mumbai out of the tournament as well.
Levi's hundred drew comparisons to Gayle and he is confident he can be the attacking opener his team needs. The key, he said, will be how fast he can adapt to playing in Indian conditions, though he already has an edge in that regard, having played in last year's Champions League Twenty20 with the Cape Cobras. That event taught Levi to be more patient on wickets that are slower than the ones in South Africa and where the ball doesn't bounce as much. Learning how to train in hot conditions and managing his body for the rigours of the seven-week tournament will also be crucial to his chances of succeeding in the IPL.
"I spoke to a couple of guys [in the South African team] and they said if you can master [Indian] conditions, you can play anywhere in the world."
Levi has always had the ability to hit the ball a long way and said none of his coaches through the years have ever tried to change the way he played. "In the longer format of the game you are told 'don't be stupid' and that sort of stuff," he said. "In Twenty20 and the one-day game, you can get away with it. But in general, it has just been you have got to where you are playing the way you have. You need to refine it, but don't lose it."
He credits his Cobras coach Richard Pybus in particular with helping him develop a clearer understanding of his strengths and weakness, while his Cobras team-mate Owais Shah has been another positive influence on his development as batsman. As a result, Levi went from averaging below 30 in the 2009-10 season in first-class cricket to over 50 in 2010-11. His List A average in 2011-12 was 49.44.
"You are not going to score a 100 over 40 balls every time in T20 cricket," Levi said. "The trick is to keep everything as simple as possible and play to your strengths and just watch the ball."
Anybody who watched Levi that day in Hamilton would have left with indelible memories of an astonishing innings. Yet the man himself remembers little from the innings that put him on the international map and led to high-profile IPL contract. There are memories of his captain, AB de Villiers, standing at the other end and clapping and he remembers getting to personal milestones, but not much else.
"I watched the highlights once or twice and I still don't believe some of the shots I played," Levi said. "They were a bit messy and a bit freakish at times. Luckily, they came off on that day and I kept going and the ball kept landing over the ropes."
If he can keep sending the ball over the ropes in the IPL, Mumbai Indians aren't going to mind if he can't remember doing so.
Levi has always had the ability to hit the ball a long way and said none of his coaches through the years have ever tried to change the way he played. "In the longer format of the game you are told 'don't be stupid' and that sort of stuff," he said. "In Twenty20 and the one-day game, you can get away with it. But in general, it has just been you have got to where you are playing the way you have. You need to refine it, but don't lose it."
He credits his Cobras coach Richard Pybus in particular with helping him develop a clearer understanding of his strengths and weakness, while his Cobras team-mate Owais Shah has been another positive influence on his development as batsman. As a result, Levi went from averaging below 30 in the 2009-10 season in first-class cricket to over 50 in 2010-11. His List A average in 2011-12 was 49.44.
"You are not going to score a 100 over 40 balls every time in T20 cricket," Levi said. "The trick is to keep everything as simple as possible and play to your strengths and just watch the ball."
Anybody who watched Levi that day in Hamilton would have left with indelible memories of an astonishing innings. Yet the man himself remembers little from the innings that put him on the international map and led to high-profile IPL contract. There are memories of his captain, AB de Villiers, standing at the other end and clapping and he remembers getting to personal milestones, but not much else.
"I watched the highlights once or twice and I still don't believe some of the shots I played," Levi said. "They were a bit messy and a bit freakish at times. Luckily, they came off on that day and I kept going and the ball kept landing over the ropes."
If he can keep sending the ball over the ropes in the IPL, Mumbai Indians aren't going to mind if he can't remember doing so.
IPL 5: Paceman Balaji feels KKR can win title
Posted on MARCH 12, 2012
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are ready to put in that extra effort to win the IndianPremier League (IPL) title this year, according to their paceman Lakshmipathy Balaji.
Former India fast bowler Balaji is one of the key players for KKR. He is hoping to do well in IPL 5 and take the team to the title.
"Definitely (we can win). We have to put in that extra effort this season to emerge on top," Balaji toldThatscricket in an exclusive interview.
IPL 5 will get under way in Chennai on April 4. This year, there will be nine teams as Kochi Tuskers Kerala was banned by the BCCI.
KKR had an ordinary start to IPL in the first season but last year, with a new-look unit, were always in the hunt for the top four slots. They reached the play-offs and ended fourth in the 10-team league
With Gautam Gambhir as the captain and big-hitter Yusuf Pathan in the ranks, KKR entertained their fans in 2011. They also qualified for the Champions League.
"We were always fighting for the top three spots last year. We did well in the league stage. When it comes to knockouts, in a Twenty20 anything can happen. We need to go that extra mile in those games," the 30-year-old said.
Balaji was at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), recovering from a left ankle problem. He will be back in action next week. He will be part of a pre-season camp with KKR.
"I was at the NCA for rehab. I had fluid collection in my left ankle. It is fine now and I will be back in action next week," the Tamil Nadu captain said.
In the last month's auction in Bangalore, KKR bought West Indian spinner Sunil Narine for $700,000, which surprised most of the players and owners.
Commenting on Narine's addition, Balaji said he can contribute to the team in a big way.
"Sunil Narine is a thinking cricketer. I have interacted with him during the Champions League. We also have New Zealand's big hitter Brendon McCullum and Marchant de Lange of South Africa. These additions will take us to the next level," Balaji felt.
Former India fast bowler Balaji is one of the key players for KKR. He is hoping to do well in IPL 5 and take the team to the title.
"Definitely (we can win). We have to put in that extra effort this season to emerge on top," Balaji toldThatscricket in an exclusive interview.
IPL 5 will get under way in Chennai on April 4. This year, there will be nine teams as Kochi Tuskers Kerala was banned by the BCCI.
KKR had an ordinary start to IPL in the first season but last year, with a new-look unit, were always in the hunt for the top four slots. They reached the play-offs and ended fourth in the 10-team league
With Gautam Gambhir as the captain and big-hitter Yusuf Pathan in the ranks, KKR entertained their fans in 2011. They also qualified for the Champions League.
"We were always fighting for the top three spots last year. We did well in the league stage. When it comes to knockouts, in a Twenty20 anything can happen. We need to go that extra mile in those games," the 30-year-old said.
Balaji was at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), recovering from a left ankle problem. He will be back in action next week. He will be part of a pre-season camp with KKR.
"I was at the NCA for rehab. I had fluid collection in my left ankle. It is fine now and I will be back in action next week," the Tamil Nadu captain said.
In the last month's auction in Bangalore, KKR bought West Indian spinner Sunil Narine for $700,000, which surprised most of the players and owners.
Commenting on Narine's addition, Balaji said he can contribute to the team in a big way.
"Sunil Narine is a thinking cricketer. I have interacted with him during the Champions League. We also have New Zealand's big hitter Brendon McCullum and Marchant de Lange of South Africa. These additions will take us to the next level," Balaji felt.
IPL impact: 5 new sports leagues come up in 18 months, non-cricket sports have no dearth of sponsors
Posted on MARCH 12, 2012
If Pepsi's latest commercial, 'change the game', prods people to switch from cricket to football, it hints at a fundamental shift in the way the cola major plans to use sports as a brand-building platform. It feeds off - and feeds into - a fundamental change happening in the Indian sporting landscape.
Inspired by the success of the Indian Premier League(IPL) in cricket, almost every sport with some following in India is launching a city-based, professional league. Five new professional leagues have been announced in the last 18 months and, word is, two others are being revived. "The Indian sports consumer is looking for entertainment, diversion, passion and emotion," says Shailendra Singh, joint managing director, Percept India, which is behind the Indian Boxing League (IBL). "League sport will ensure that."
But for leagues to become a permanent fixture, something only the IPL has managed so far, paramount is drawing sponsors and advertisers. If the initial response is any indication, sponsors of many hues are warming to them. Hero Motocorp is making big investments in hockey, the Mahindra Group in basketball, and the ongoing World Series Hockey (WSH) has Bridgestone and Vodafone among its sponsors.
"Those chasing cricket will have to move to a life beyond it," says Sanjay Sharma, head of JK Motorsport. "The canvas has to enlarge for brand marketers as cricket won't continue to enjoy the status it does." Besides cricket fatigue and the gathering momentum of other sports, there are three reasons why marketers and sponsors are gravitating towards these new leagues.
Low-risk investment
The new leagues offer a low-cost proposition. Unlike cricket, they don't have to put a lot at stake. CVL Srinivas, chairman of Starcom MediaVest India, a global communication & media services group, says while sports is a good medium for brands to connect to the youth, the most popular of them, cricket, poses an entry barrier for many advertisers. "Many advertisers today see cricket as overpriced," he says. "Emerging new leagues could give them an opportunity to enter sports in some way at a much lower cost."
Four years ago, when Bridgestone considered IPL as a medium for brand communication, it was put off by the price tags for premium rights. For example, DLF pays 40 crore per year to be the title sponsor of IPL. So, Bridgestone made a modest entry into cricket as a co-sponsor of IPL team Mumbai Indians. The decision to become the title sponsor for the ongoing World Series Hockey (WSH) came easy.
Inspired by the success of the Indian Premier League(IPL) in cricket, almost every sport with some following in India is launching a city-based, professional league. Five new professional leagues have been announced in the last 18 months and, word is, two others are being revived. "The Indian sports consumer is looking for entertainment, diversion, passion and emotion," says Shailendra Singh, joint managing director, Percept India, which is behind the Indian Boxing League (IBL). "League sport will ensure that."
But for leagues to become a permanent fixture, something only the IPL has managed so far, paramount is drawing sponsors and advertisers. If the initial response is any indication, sponsors of many hues are warming to them. Hero Motocorp is making big investments in hockey, the Mahindra Group in basketball, and the ongoing World Series Hockey (WSH) has Bridgestone and Vodafone among its sponsors.
"Those chasing cricket will have to move to a life beyond it," says Sanjay Sharma, head of JK Motorsport. "The canvas has to enlarge for brand marketers as cricket won't continue to enjoy the status it does." Besides cricket fatigue and the gathering momentum of other sports, there are three reasons why marketers and sponsors are gravitating towards these new leagues.
Low-risk investment
The new leagues offer a low-cost proposition. Unlike cricket, they don't have to put a lot at stake. CVL Srinivas, chairman of Starcom MediaVest India, a global communication & media services group, says while sports is a good medium for brands to connect to the youth, the most popular of them, cricket, poses an entry barrier for many advertisers. "Many advertisers today see cricket as overpriced," he says. "Emerging new leagues could give them an opportunity to enter sports in some way at a much lower cost."
Four years ago, when Bridgestone considered IPL as a medium for brand communication, it was put off by the price tags for premium rights. For example, DLF pays 40 crore per year to be the title sponsor of IPL. So, Bridgestone made a modest entry into cricket as a co-sponsor of IPL team Mumbai Indians. The decision to become the title sponsor for the ongoing World Series Hockey (WSH) came easy.
Ahead of season five, IPL teams bank on social media to lure fans
Posted on MARCH 12, 2012
Flagging interest in cricket following India’s elimination from the One-day triangular series in Australia this month is prompting the Indian Premier League (IPL) team owners to leave nothing to chance.
They expect to increase spending on advertising by 10-15% for the new season—which begins on 4 April—compared with the last season, and have also started advertising campaigns by reaching out to fans directly through social media, roadshows and contests involving fans’ participation.
The Mumbai Indians has some of its star players Sachin Tendulkar, Harbhajan Singh and Rohit Sharma reaching out to the team’s 2.5 million fans by doing personalized videos this year. The team is sending fans on the team’s Facebook page 30-second video clips in which each cricketer personally addresses each fan and shares personal information while thanking them for their support. The campaign, called “Players Become Friends”, will be supported by radio and television with the social/digital medium anchoring it.
“The team (Mumbai Indians) has such a fantastic fan base and we wanted to get closer to them and build a one-on-one relationship instead of doing heavy television advertising,” said Piyush Pandey, executive chairman and creative director, South Asia, at Ogilvy and Mather, the agency behind the campaign.
In the third edition of IPL, Mumbai Indians got about Rs.55 crore in sponsorship, and expects that to double this year, according to a person with direct knowledge of the development, who did not want to be identified.
The Delhi Daredevils team is planning something similar to Mumbai Indians, using social media to organize “banter” between fans and cricketers.
“Social media is not cheap,” said Hemant Dua, GMR sports head (marketing). “You either spend a lot of money or use it intelligently. We are trying to integrate both,” he said, adding that the team will spend significantly more on advertising this year.
Rajasthan Royals is teaming up with Empire Spices to take its brand to the “interiors of Rajasthan and Maharashtra” because typically, its campaign tends to focus on more urban audiences, according to chief executive Raghu Iyer. He added that the team will push for more interaction between fans and captain Rahul Dravid through social networking as part of its advertising spend, which will be 10-15% higher this season.
Dravid, who announced his retirement from domestic and international cricket on Friday, will play this IPL season.
On average, each IPL team spends between $1 million and $1.5 million on promotions and brand building, said Reddy, who expects revenue from local sponsorships and tie-ups to increase 10-15%.
According to PricewaterhouseCoopers India, the fourth edition of IPL, in 2011, had advertisement revenue of approximately Rs.1,000 crore. But with India’s cricketing fortunes slumping recently, “teams will look at (additionally) consolidating and connecting with their fan base through promotions”, said Timmy Khandari, executive director and leader entertainment and media at PricewaterhouseCoopers India, while explaining that a shift towards social media is natural.
Chennai Super Kings started a campaign earlier this year through social media to invite fans to name the team mascot. This was done mostly through the team’s Facebook page and on radio. “There is no dramatic change in how we approach the medium,” said Rakesh Singh, joint president (marketing), India Cements Ltd, which owns the team. “But it makes a lot of sense to be active on social networks. We are, for instance, the second most followed team on Twitter after Kolkata Knight Riders.”
Deccan Chargers, too, is taking to roadshows as it tries to connect with a broader base of fans across Visakhapatnam, Orissa and Hyderabad. “Our focus will be on creating a direct connect across our three home grounds,” said Venkat Reddy, chief operating officer, Deccan Chargers.
Many team strategists believe advertising on national television is too expensive and lacks the kind of focus that can be achieved through print, outdoor and social media.
But social media spending will supplement other forms of advertising and not replace them, according to analysts. “Social media will be an additional spend over and above the usual promotional activities. It is an engagement medium and can’t be a replacement for other mediums,” said Jehil Thakkar, executive director, media and entertainment, at consulting firm KPMG India Pvt. Ltd.
Rahul Dravid poster boy for Rajasthan Royals this IPL
Posted on MARCH 12, 2012
The curtains may have come down on 'the Wall' but Rahul Dravid could become even more visible on the small screen in the upcoming IPL season as his team Rajasthan Royals looks to cash in on the emotional quotient post his retirement.
Not only his IPL team, endorsement market experts believe that Dravid could still be a natural choice for many brands thanks to his reliability and integrity.
"We are planning to shoot an advertisement with Rahul Dravid along with other team members of Rajasthan Royals. He is a very good cricketer and an association with him will definitely help us upgrade our brand,"Supertech Ltd CMD R K Arora said.
Real estate developer Supertech is one of the sponsors of Rajasthan Royals (RR) IPL team captained by Dravid in the fifth season of the Indian Premier League. According to RR's Chief Executive Officer Raghu Iyer, Dravid signifies reliability and integrity.
"After the news of his retirement, definitely the emotional quotient has gone up and it will definitely have a positive rub-off on Rajasthan Royals as fans would like to see him play cricket. It should augur well for Rajasthan Royals team in this IPL season," Iyer said.
RR's sponsors, including TCS, Ultratech, Kingfisher, Puma and Supertech would want to use his image along with other RR team members in their commercials and promotions, he added.
"They (sponsors) were already planning, but his retirement will surely accentuate that," Iyer added. In the past, Dravid has endorsed brands like Bank of Baroda, Britannia, Hutch, Reebok, Sansui, Citizen, Pepsi, Karnataka Tourism, Castrol, Max New York Life, Kissan and Gillette.
Not only his IPL team, endorsement market experts believe that Dravid could still be a natural choice for many brands thanks to his reliability and integrity.
"We are planning to shoot an advertisement with Rahul Dravid along with other team members of Rajasthan Royals. He is a very good cricketer and an association with him will definitely help us upgrade our brand,"Supertech Ltd CMD R K Arora said.
Real estate developer Supertech is one of the sponsors of Rajasthan Royals (RR) IPL team captained by Dravid in the fifth season of the Indian Premier League. According to RR's Chief Executive Officer Raghu Iyer, Dravid signifies reliability and integrity.
"After the news of his retirement, definitely the emotional quotient has gone up and it will definitely have a positive rub-off on Rajasthan Royals as fans would like to see him play cricket. It should augur well for Rajasthan Royals team in this IPL season," Iyer said.
RR's sponsors, including TCS, Ultratech, Kingfisher, Puma and Supertech would want to use his image along with other RR team members in their commercials and promotions, he added.
"They (sponsors) were already planning, but his retirement will surely accentuate that," Iyer added. In the past, Dravid has endorsed brands like Bank of Baroda, Britannia, Hutch, Reebok, Sansui, Citizen, Pepsi, Karnataka Tourism, Castrol, Max New York Life, Kissan and Gillette.
IPL negativity could affect ad revenues
Posted on MARCH 11, 2012
It is up to the Indian Premier League (IPL) management and the nine franchises to change the negative perception that cricket has developed of late due to the disastrous performance of the Indian team in international matches.
The lower viewership recorded in IPL4 and the current negative sentiment among cricket lovers has prompted many advertisers to have their pound of flesh by negotiating tougher deals with broadcaster SET MAX and the IPL franchises.
General Entertainment Channels (GECs), whose prime-time programmes should be hit by a successful IPL, are not concerned. However, Star Plus has postponed the launch of a programme featuring Aamir Khan, so as to not clash with the IPL. "This year, we don't think they (IPL) could cross a rating of 3," said an official from a GEC. The IPL had a rating of 3.9 last season.
Doubts have been raised whether SET MAX would make its expected money or whether the broadcaster would be forced to undersell air time. But Rohit Gupta, president of Sony Entertainment Television, said: "Everything is ready. We have closed a lot of deals. More clients are coming in. It is too early to say about the revenue projection. Our aim is to grow a bit."
Some analysts said that SET MAX will have to sell spots in initial matches at a 20 per cent discount to attract advertisers. "Ad rates are based on the previous year's performance. SET MAX charged 20 per cent premium in IPL4 based on IPL3's TRP. Now that IPL4 had a lower TRP, it will have to give a discount initially in IPL5," said an advertising expert.
However, media buying agencies are hopeful that the momentum would pick up as the tournament goes on. "Cricket has worked well before. IPL is all about winning. I don't think there would be any collateral damage. But it will be tough this time. The viewership has dropped and now the mood is low. People are interested in investing but they will not put money blindly. It will be no more impulsive," said Mona Jain, CEO of Vivaki Exchange, a large media buying firm.
Advertising stalwart Piyush Pandey agreed with Jain. "The sentiment changes very fast. The apprehension that IPL5 would be affected is unfounded. Here the Indian team is not playing. IPL is all about exciting atmosphere. I have seen a lot of excitement among advertisers," the chairman of O&M India said.
Yannick Colaco, COO of Nimbus Sports, agreed: "If the immediate performance of Team India determines the fate of IPL, then why did the previous IPL witness a drop in TRP despite India's World Cup win?"
Rakesh Singh, joint president, marketing of Chennai Super Kings owner India Cements, is optimistic. "By the time IPL5 comes, the whole thing (defeats) will be forgotten. All our slots are sold, and we don't sell cheap. The response is overwhelming," he said.
Steven Smith replaces Marsh at PWI
Posted on MARCH 10, 2012
Steven Smith, Australia's leg-spinning all-rounder, has replaced his compatriot Mitchell Marsh in the Pune Warriors India squad for the DLF IPL 2012.
"Steven Smith is one of the brightest talents to emerge onto the international scene in recent times. We have no doubt that he will excel for us with both bat and ball," Sushanto Roy, Managing Director, Sahara Adventure Sports Ltd, said.
Smith was part of the Royal Challengers Bangalore squad during the 2010 season. He was acquired by Kochi Tuskers Kerala for the 2011 season, but was forced to miss the tournament due to injury.
"Steven Smith is one of the brightest talents to emerge onto the international scene in recent times. We have no doubt that he will excel for us with both bat and ball," Sushanto Roy, Managing Director, Sahara Adventure Sports Ltd, said.
Smith was part of the Royal Challengers Bangalore squad during the 2010 season. He was acquired by Kochi Tuskers Kerala for the 2011 season, but was forced to miss the tournament due to injury.
Dravid was my first choice: Kundra
Posted on MARCH 10, 2012
We may not get to see Rahul Dravid in the India blues anymore but we’ll still have a glimpse of the genius as he puts on the blue and gold jersey for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2012. Dravid will lead the side at the fifth edition of the tournament beginning April 4.
"Rahul Dravid will be the coach and the mentor as far as the team is concerned," Royals co-owner Raj Kundra was quoted as saying.
"He was my first choice when the board sat down and said, ‘Who do you want as captain?’ We had to make the decision. I had only one name and that was Rahul Dravid," Kundra added.
Dravid, who has taken over the mantle from the Australian spin wizard Shane Warne, served Indian cricket for 16 glorious years before calling it a day on March 9. He ended his international career as the second-highest run-getter and with the highest number of catches in Tests to his credit.
"He is someone the Indian players look up to and the international players respect. He is a role model. He is very calm and collected," Kundra said.
"This year we have given him a decent team as per his requirements. We have some great players. I hope he gives us the result we had in season one."
Dravid scored 343 runs in 12 matches in his first season with RR in 2011 and has a total of 1241 runs from 55 games in the IPL.
IPL could be all Wright for Luke
Posted on MARCH 09, 2012
LUKE WRIGHT is targeting a place in England's World Twenty20 squad after netting a £250,000 Indian Premier League deal.
The Sussex all-rounder, who has not played for his country since June last year, penned a two-year contract with IPL side Pune Warriors yesterday.
After a 44-ball century for Australian side Melbourne Stars over the winter, the 27-year-old hopes to impress the England selectors some more before World Twenty20 defence in Sri Lanka this September.
He told SunSport: "This is a great chance to try and force my way back into England's Twenty20 plans after getting injured at the back end of last summer.
"I played in the Big Bash and got the fastest ever hundred in that competition — that and this spell in the IPL can only help my chances."
One man he'd do well to keep in with is Stuart Broad, who captains England in the shortest form of the game.
The duo are best pals from their time as juniors in Leicestershire — something nice guy Wright insists won't change even if he misses out.
He said: "When Broady got the captaincy we talked about it — we will stay friends and cricket will not get in the way of that if I don't get picked.
"But if I do well in the IPL, rest assured I'll keep badgering him."
Wright will fly out to India for the eight-week tournament at the start of next month and play under legend Sourav Ganguly — the man who hired him.
He added: "I missed out in the IPL auction in February but got a call from Ganguly this week saying he wanted me.
"When a guy like that asks you to play for him, it's hard to turn it down.
"First and foremost you have to want to do it for cricketing reasons, but with a young family, you can't ignore the financial benefits."
County - Wright to play in the IPL
Posted on March 08, 2012
England limited-overs all-rounder Luke Wright is planning to miss the start of the domestic season, in favour of a stint in the Indian Premier League
The 27-year-old did not secure an IPL contract during the winter player auctions, but has revealed via his own Twitter account that he is set to join Pune Warriors after all.
The Sussex player becomes the second Englishman in the space of two days to join the IPL, following Essex's Owais Shah - who agreed a deal with Rajasthan Royals on Wednesday.
Wright was part of England's ICC World Twenty20-winning team in the Caribbean in 2010 and also made a big impression for Melbourne Stars in Australia's Big Bash League earlier this year, but last played for his country in the nine-wicket defeat to Sri Lanka in a Twenty20 international in Bristol last June.
He tweeted: "I'm delighted to be going to the IPL with Pune Warriors.
"I'm disappointed to miss the start of the Sussex season, but it's an amazing opportunity few could turn away."
Warrior Uthappa picked in India squad
Pune Warriors India batting mainstay Robin Uthappa has been included in the 15-man squad for the one-off Twenty20 International in South Africa to be played on March 30.
Uthappa, who played as a wicketkeeper-batsman for the Pune Warriors franchise in IPL 2011, last donned the India cap in the one-off T20 against England at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata in October 2011. That match was his first appearance for India since 2008.
Uthappa has forced his way into the reckoning for national selection with twin centuries in the Inter-State One-Day League that helped Karnataka qualify for the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy.
At IPL 2011, Uthappa was Pune Warriors’ third-most prolific batsman with 264 runs from 14 matches at a strike-rate of 126.31. He also stood second on the list of wicketkeepers with most number of dismissals in the tournament with 12 catches and three stumpings.
Warne’s had a great influence: Dravid
Posted on MARCH 06, 2012Rahul Dravid led Team India in 25 Tests and 79 ODIs. He then captained the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the inaugural edition of the IPL, in 2008. The batting legend is now back at the helm, leading Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2012.
It’s been a while since Dravid’s assumed the role of leader, but the legend is unperturbed by the hiatus.
"Yes, I am leading a side for the first time after 2008, but that doesn't make a difference at all. I am mentally prepared and geared up for the challenge," Dravid said at the launch of the Royals’ new jersey for IPL 2012.
Dravid takes over the reins of the Royals from Shane Warne, who captained and mentored the side for four IPL seasons, also leading them to the crown in 2008. Dravid appreciates the work put in by the Australian legend in creating the team that he is now in charge of.
"Warnie has had a great influence. I've also learnt a lot in the little time I spent with him last season. I even had a chat with him while I was in Australia recently. There are a lot of things that he shared and I am hopeful that this bunch will come good," Dravid said.
Joining Dravid at the jersey launch was S Sreesanth, picked up by the franchise at the IPL Player Auction 2012. Commenting on what he expects from the talented but volatile Indian medium pacer, Dravid said, "Sree has been a world-class performer and is capable of taking wickets with the new ball. That is what counts in any form of the game. I expect him to take a lot of wickets for us and help us repeat our success in the first edition.”
Webster joins KKR support staff
Dr. Rudi Webster appointed as Mental Skills coach
Posted on MARCH 05, 2012
IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders have appointed renowned sports psychologist Dr. Rudi Webster as their Mental Skills Coach.
The Brabados native was the manager of the glorious West Indies team that dominated world cricket for more than 15 years under the leadership of Clive Lloyd.
KKR CEO, Venky Mysore, expressed his pleasure at acquiring the 72 year-old’s services for IPL 2012. "We are delighted to welcome Dr Webster. I am sure he will add to the strength and play an important role in taking KKR to the next level of performance," Mysore said.
Webster has worked with the national cricket teams of West Indies, Sri Lanka and India in the past. He is also the author of 'Winning Ways: In Search of Your Best Performance'.
The Brabados native was the manager of the glorious West Indies team that dominated world cricket for more than 15 years under the leadership of Clive Lloyd.
KKR CEO, Venky Mysore, expressed his pleasure at acquiring the 72 year-old’s services for IPL 2012. "We are delighted to welcome Dr Webster. I am sure he will add to the strength and play an important role in taking KKR to the next level of performance," Mysore said.
Webster has worked with the national cricket teams of West Indies, Sri Lanka and India in the past. He is also the author of 'Winning Ways: In Search of Your Best Performance'.
KKR sign four domestic players
Posted on MARCH 01, 2012
The Kolkata Knight Riders have signed four domestic players to bolster their squad before the start of IPL 2012.
The four players signed by the franchise are Debabrata Das, Iresh Saxena, Chirag Jani and Sanju Samson. While Das and Saxena hail from Bengal, Jani comes from Saurashtra and Samson is from Kerala.
KKR CEO, Venky Mysore, expressed his satisfaction on the signings saying, “Our latest signings continue to reflect our two chosen areas of local players and emerging talent.
“Debabrata and Iresh grow our commitment in our catchment area of Bengal – and we are really happy that they will get a chance to secure their places in our team.
“Chirag and Sanju represent our investment towards the future, and we know that they have the talent and dedication to significantly contribute to our team one day.”
Debabrata, who was part of the Knight Riders’ squad in the inaugural IPL season, is a 25-year-old middle-order batsman who can double up as wicketkeeper as well.
Saxena, a 28-year-old left-arm spinner, meanwhile, has been an important part of the Bengal squad in all three versions of the game.
The 22-year-old Jani has emerged as a dependable all-rounder for Saurashtra while Samson is a promising keeper and middle-order batsman.
Kolkata, who had made it past the league stage of the competition for the first time in April 2011, had earlier picked up Brendon McCullum, Sunil Narine and Marchant de Lange at the 2012 Player Auction.
Kolkata will begin their IPL 2012 campaign when they host the Delhi Daredevils on April 5 at the Eden Gardens at 8pm (IST).
The four players signed by the franchise are Debabrata Das, Iresh Saxena, Chirag Jani and Sanju Samson. While Das and Saxena hail from Bengal, Jani comes from Saurashtra and Samson is from Kerala.
KKR CEO, Venky Mysore, expressed his satisfaction on the signings saying, “Our latest signings continue to reflect our two chosen areas of local players and emerging talent.
“Debabrata and Iresh grow our commitment in our catchment area of Bengal – and we are really happy that they will get a chance to secure their places in our team.
“Chirag and Sanju represent our investment towards the future, and we know that they have the talent and dedication to significantly contribute to our team one day.”
Debabrata, who was part of the Knight Riders’ squad in the inaugural IPL season, is a 25-year-old middle-order batsman who can double up as wicketkeeper as well.
Saxena, a 28-year-old left-arm spinner, meanwhile, has been an important part of the Bengal squad in all three versions of the game.
The 22-year-old Jani has emerged as a dependable all-rounder for Saurashtra while Samson is a promising keeper and middle-order batsman.
Kolkata, who had made it past the league stage of the competition for the first time in April 2011, had earlier picked up Brendon McCullum, Sunil Narine and Marchant de Lange at the 2012 Player Auction.
Kolkata will begin their IPL 2012 campaign when they host the Delhi Daredevils on April 5 at the Eden Gardens at 8pm (IST).
KP launches Delhi Daredevils kit
Posted on FEBRUARY 29, 2012
Flamboyant batsman Kevin Pietersen, who was transferred from Deccan Chargers to the Delhi Daredevils for the 2012 edition of the IPL, launched the new team kit on Thursday in Dubai.
“There is no doubt that the Indian Premier League is an exciting competition and I am delighted to be back after having to miss out last season because of a surgery," Pietersen said about his return.The man who made the switch-hit famous added, "When I look at the squad list, I am sure that Delhi Daredevils will regain the consistency it has shown in the first three editions when it won 24 games."
Team mentor and head of cricket at GMR Sports, DD’s parent company, T A Sekar believes, "Kevin's transfer from Hyderabad, the successful bidding for Mahela Jayawardene and young all-rounders Andre Russell [West Indies] and Douglas Bracewell [New Zealand] are all steps in the right direction."“He fits into our brand quite well,” said Sekar about the iconic batsman.
“There is a saying that Delhi plays on the front foot and KP is one guy who always takes on the bowler so that is why we took him on. KP is a big name in India. He has records behind him and [he has been part of the England team that] won [the] Ashes.”Head of Marketing of the GMR group, Hemant Dua feels KP’s image would a useful tool in the branding exercise.
“We are looking at exchange programmes where cricket and marketing can benefit. KP brings in the extra charm to the team. He is a stylish player and has an aura around him and that appeal to us. The idea is to reach out to different target audiences.”
“There is no doubt that the Indian Premier League is an exciting competition and I am delighted to be back after having to miss out last season because of a surgery," Pietersen said about his return.The man who made the switch-hit famous added, "When I look at the squad list, I am sure that Delhi Daredevils will regain the consistency it has shown in the first three editions when it won 24 games."
Team mentor and head of cricket at GMR Sports, DD’s parent company, T A Sekar believes, "Kevin's transfer from Hyderabad, the successful bidding for Mahela Jayawardene and young all-rounders Andre Russell [West Indies] and Douglas Bracewell [New Zealand] are all steps in the right direction."“He fits into our brand quite well,” said Sekar about the iconic batsman.
“There is a saying that Delhi plays on the front foot and KP is one guy who always takes on the bowler so that is why we took him on. KP is a big name in India. He has records behind him and [he has been part of the England team that] won [the] Ashes.”Head of Marketing of the GMR group, Hemant Dua feels KP’s image would a useful tool in the branding exercise.
“We are looking at exchange programmes where cricket and marketing can benefit. KP brings in the extra charm to the team. He is a stylish player and has an aura around him and that appeal to us. The idea is to reach out to different target audiences.”
Daredevils sign on Ross Taylor
Posted on FEBRUARY 29, 2012
New Zealand captain Ross Taylor has been traded by Rajasthan Royals to Delhi Daredevils ahead of IPL 2012. Taylor is Delhi’s second big signing of the season after they acquired Kevin Pietersen from the Deccan Chargers.
Speaking on Taylor’s inclusion, Daredevils mentor TA Sekar said, "We all know what a quality player Ross is and we are happy that he will be with us this season.
“Besides players like our captain Virender Sehwag and David Warner, we have added muscle to our batting by inducting Mahela Jayawardene, Kevin Pietersen and now Ross Taylor into our fold. Our fans can look forward to some explosive knocks."
Rajasthan Royals had bought Taylor for USD 1 million at the IPL Player Auction 2011. The Kiwi played 12 matches for the Royals, scoring 181 runs at an average of 36.20 and a strike-rate of 119.07.
The Black Caps captain is currently nursing a calf injury but is expected to return to cricket with the Test series against South Africa starting March 7.
Taylor was part of the Royal Challengers Bangalore outfit for the first three IPL seasons before moving to the Royals. Delhi Daredevils will be his third IPL team.
Summary of the player-transfers during the IPL 2012 trading window:
Dinesh Karthik from KXIP to MI
R Satish from MI to KXIP
Harmeet Singh from DC to KXIP.
Kevin Pietersen from DC to DD
Andrew McDonald from DD to RCB
Pragyan Ojha from DC to MI
James Hopes and Ashok Dinda from DD to PWI
Shreevats Goswami from KKR to RR
Ross Taylor from RR to DD
Sahara Pune Warriors need teams' consent to field five foreign players
Posted on FEBRUARY 23, 2012
MUMBAI: Eight Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise owners have received a letter from Sahara Pune Warriors requesting their consent to be allowed to field five foreign players in the fifth edition of the tournament starting April 4.
The request follows BCCI's missive that if Pune Warriors want to field five foreigners, they have to seek the consent of the remaining eight franchises.
"Sahara has to get the consent of all other franchises and that matter will be put before the working committee, which will take the final call," IPL governing council chairman Rajiv Shukla said on Wednesday.
Two separate franchise officials confirmed to TOI that they had already received the letter from Sahara, requesting the same. The letter has Sahara mentioning Yuvraj Singh's illness and his absence from this year's tournament as the reason for seeking five foreigners.
There have been mixed reactions from the franchises so far and there is no consensus yet on whether to allow Sahara Pune Warriors an exception or not. There has been no deadline mentioned in the letter either and neither has BCCI given the franchises a deadline to reply.
"The general feeling is that there is no harm in allowing Sahara Pune Warriors to play five foreigners but rest of the franchises should also be able to do the same," says an official in the know of developments.
The final decision is likely to come out before the end of February.
Meanwhile, the Governing Council has ratified most of the other decisions made in the recent meetings between the BCCI and Sahara that led to the reconciliation. Sahara Group, Indian team's sponsor for 11 years, had ended its financial ties with BCCI and had also pulled out of the IPL by withdrawing their franchise Pune Warriors from the tournament, just hours before the player auction on February 4.
"All the things which were decided with Sahara were ratified by the Governing Council," IPL chairman Shukla said on Wednesday.
PlayUp with Waugh and Sharma to boost fan engagement in IPL 5
Posted on FEBRUARY 23, 2012
NEW DELHI: PlayUp, a social network application for sports fans, on Thursday announced the launch of Cricket Empires, which will have expert inputs from Australian legend Steve Waugh and Indian cricket star Rohit Sharma.
Cricket Empires is the first truly social game built for Cricket, designed to revolutionise the experience around the fifth edition of the Indian Premier League.
"Cricket Empires is an effort to let fans immerse themselves in the entire Cricket ecosystem. With a deeper understanding of the nitty-gritty comes a deeper appreciation of and bonding with the game," said Steve Waugh, one of the key stakeholders in the PlayUp business.
PlayUp brand ambassador Rohit Sharma also expressed his excitement at the launch of Cricket Empires and said he was certain fan engagement around IPL would reach a crescendo.
Available across Facebook and mobile devices, this innovative game experience will provide fans the opportunity to flaunt their passion for Cricket to their social graph.
This app puts users in an immersive world that they can develop as they progress through the game. Users have two main assets - their Sports City and their Teams.
To create their teams they can choose their 16 from among the latest generation of international and domestic players. Fans create their perfect Empire with the addition of facilities such as stadiums, gymnasiums, team offices and training centers.
Users can also challenge their friends to matches and establish their cricketing superiority. Real world performances, for instance, affect the popularity and demand for players within the game and fans need to adjust their Super-16 accordingly.
Cricket Empires will be launched as a public beta in early March with a full release to follow in time for the new IPL season. Users can enjoy the application on popular Social Media platforms and from their smartphones.
IPL GC ratifies Pune-related decisions
Posted on FEBRUARY 22, 2012
The IPL Governing Council on Wednesday took stock of the operational aspects of the fifth edition set to start at Chennai on April 4.
“We have cleared pending issues and also scheduled the IPL VI 2013 from April 3 to May 26. The Council also ratified decisions in connection with Pune Warriors' participation in the IPL.
“With regard to they (Pune Warriors) being allowed to field overseas players in a match, Sahara Indian Pariwar has to take consent from the other eight team owners and revert to the BCCI.
“This has been made clear in the joint statement. We have not pondered (for the inclusion) of an additional team for IPL 2013,'' said Rajiv Shukla, Chairman, IPL GC. — Special Correspondent
IPL bidding war begins over Levi
Posted on FEBRUARY 22, 2012
Richard Levi's spectacular century against New Zealand has sparked a bidding frenzy across India.
Levi, who clubbed a world record unbeaten 117 off only 51 balls in Sunday's second T20 against the Black Caps, is said to have four Indian Premier League teams fighting over him.
The powerful 24-year-old right-hander, who hit a record 13 sixes at Seddon Park in Hamilton, went unsold at a base price of $50000 during the mini-auctions held in Bangalore on February 4.
The latest news from India suggests the bidding has reached $400000, with Pune Warriors, who are back in the IPL after resolving a dispute with the BCCI, having the inside track ahead of the Mumbai Indians.
Selection chief Andrew Hudson said the opening bat would not stay on after calls for Levi to be included in the ODI squad.
Levi is set to return home with Warriors players Rusty Theron and Colin Ingram after the deciding T20 International in Auckland today .
Cobras selection convener Omar Henry hopes Levi will be sufficiently rested to play against the Lions in Johannesburg on Friday.
Former captain Graeme Smith, pace bowler Dale Steyn, and allrounders Jacques Kallis and Faf du Plessis linked up with the touring Proteas squad ahead of the first of three ODIs starting in Wellington on Saturday.
"We are delighted with the way the T20 squad has progressed throughout this series and it is exciting to see the momentum that is being built for the remainder of the series," Hudson said.
"It's encouraging to see how the youngsters like Richard [Levi] and Marchant [de Lange] have stepped up to the challenges of international cricket ahead of a very important year for the squad."
South Africa face New Zealand in the first of three ODIs in Wellington on Saturday. - Additional reporting by Sapa
IPL segregates the 'haves' and 'have-nots' of domestic cricket
Posted on FEBRUARY 21, 2012
Figures don't always tell the whole story but they do indicate the trend and when it comes to IPL, a small side like J&K can be called deprived one. Out of the eleven players that Delhi fielded in their opening tie against J&K in the Vijay Hazare trophy eight players have contracts with different IPL franchises while their opponent don't have any player even from the 15-member squad being a part of an IPL team.
When the match began there were officials from Delhi Daredevils who were seen talking to the Delhi players who are part of IPL franchise. When the game finished, the officials looked desperately for Unmukt Chand and Punit Bisht.
While the J&K players went back to the nets at the end of the day's play with hardly anybody approaching them.
Even with three Ranji Trophy centuries to his name J& K's Ian Dev Singh doesn't have an IPL contract while a few Delhi players have earned it with inferior numbers.
There have been questions raised by many former players about the importance of Vijay Hazare trophy and the timing of, which they feel makes them nothing more than practice matches before the IPL. However, not many come out in the open to express the view. "This (Vijay Hazare) is an important tournament. Performances here will certainly open more avenues for the players. Though I'm not sure about getting IPL contracts," said Delhi chief coach Sanjeev Sharma.
Former India opener Aakash Chopra, however, feels that players from smaller states miss out on IPL contracts even if they perform well. "A lot of factors are involved. If a player from a plate division team does well his good performances go unnoticed because the team is not up to mark. On the other hand those from bigger sides do have it a little easy when it comes to bagging contracts," said Chopra.
IPL on a turning track this year
Posted on FEBRUARY 20, 2012
The fifth edition of the Indian Premier League, which will begin from April 4 in Chennai, will determine in many ways the future prospects of the property. Valued at over $3-billion (or over Rs 15,000 crore), IPL is easily one of the most successful tournaments in the South Asian region. But after four years of chugging along on a generous dose of hype, and of course, moolah, media analysts are beginning to question how far the IPL juggernaut can really go.
There are reasons for this. The most obvious is the performance of the Indian cricket team on foreign soil. While the last three one-day internationals played by India have helped boost sentiment back home, there are still many who are skeptical about India’s performance in forthcoming matches. Included in this lot are advertisers too. While companies such as Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, which are regulars on IPL, say they are yet to take a call on the property, media buyers, who buy advertising time on behalf of companies, say that ad rates will have to be lowered to entice firms.
“Spot ad rates are still pegged at last year’s level of Rs 5.25 lakh per 10 seconds,” says Anita Nayyar, chief executive officer, India & South Asia, Havas Media. “Ten-second rates for sponsors is a little lower at Rs 4.9 lakh. But I don’t see these levels remaining constant. I won’t be surprised if they are lowered,” she says. Nandini Dias, chief operating officer, Lodestar UM, says, “For now SET MAX, the official broadcaster of IPL, is holding on to rates. The question is: how long?.”
| FLIP-FLOP | |
| Year |
Brand valuation
|
| 2009 | $2.01 billion |
| 2010 | $4.13 billion |
| 2011 | $3.67 billion |
| Source: BrandFinance; year of start of IPL is 2008 | |
This anticipation of lower ad rates stems from the viewership expectation of IPL. Most media buyers don’t expect average ratings to be over 4 for the tournament this year. Last year, average viewership for the first 15 IPL matches was 4.36 only, lower by 18 per cent over the previous year. The data was for the top six metros spanning all television viewing audiences.
Nayyar says that this is expected given than excitement peaks during crucial matches only. “I think real viewership will be there during the semi-finals and finals. I don’t expect the league matches to see very strong viewership,” she says.
But this is only one part. The other is the far more visible problem for the organisers of the tournament - Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) - that of fewer spectators during league matches.
“A cricket match is still a cricket match at the end of the day. And lovers of the game will always come to view the game,” says Amin Lakhani, principle partner, Mindshare, a GroupM entity. “Yes, getting the others is a challenge because the novelty factor has worn out,” he says.
But there lies the catch: Can BCCI come up with something novel to infuse new life into the IPL?
For now the world’s richest cricketing board appears to be sorting out its issues with Sahara, the sponsor of the national squad as well as the owner of Pune Warriors, going the extra mile to accede to the latter’s two main demands of being allowed to play five foreign players and to reduce its franchise fees. But analysts say that Sahara’s moves may actually embolden other IPL team owners to come out with their own cup of woes. Is BCCI prepared for this?
Sahara had pulled out of sponsorship of the national squad as well as IPL on February 4 citing serious differences with the Board. Sahara alleged that the Board had not paid heed to its grievances concerning players and number of matches in the IPL. What’s worse? The decision to break ties with the BCCI was taken just hours before the IPL auction got underway in Bangalore overshadowing the latter.
Unni Krishnan, managing director of brand valuation firm BrandFinance says that Sahara’s decision to come out publicly with its angst has certainly not bolstered the brand image of IPL. If anything the IPL brand value has only taken a few extra knocks. “Trust flows result in cash flows. When there is an unravelling of these trust flows, it impacts cash flows,” he says.
Krishnan says he foresaw this “unravelling of trust flows” last year itself given reports of the lack of transparency between BCCI and IPL franchisees. In last year’s IPL survey, for instance, Brand Finance had chipped off $460 million (or Rs 2,300 crore) from IPL’s overall brand value of $4.13 billion (or Rs 20,650 crore) saying the latter’s sustainability depended on the BCCI’s ability to infuse governance policies into the tournament to align stakeholders (read franchisees) towards win-win relationships.
Krishnan says that he sees the situation getting no better this year. “The stake-holder ecosystem has been put to a severe stress test with the allegations levelled by Sahara,” he says.
How BCCI sorts out this mess is anybody’s guess.
Ganguly happy with truce between Sahara, BCCI
Posted on FEBRUARY 18, 2012
Mumbai: Glad that the Sahara Group and the BCCI have reached a compromise that paved the way for the participation of Pune Warriors in this year's IPL, the franchise team's mentor Sourav Ganguly wants his teammates to take inspiration from Mumbai Indians' performance in previous season's Champions League Twenty20.
"Good thing ... There are so many players. I always felt that it would be solved and its a good thing that it has been solved. Now we have to see what players we get and do the best," Ganguly told reporters.
The BCCI and the aggrieved Sahara Group had on Thursday reached a compromise after a series of hectic negotiations over the past few days, paving the way for Pune Warriors' participation in the fifth edition of the IPL.
Sahara, which had severed ties with the Board and withdrawn the Team India sponsorship on February 4, will return as sponsor following the truce.
Pune Warriors, who would be at a disadvantage having boycotted the recent IPL players auction, can take inspiration from the Mumbai Indians, who won the Champions League Twenty20 last year despite missing several top players, Ganguly said.
"It's T20 ... we saw Mumbai Indians winning Champions League without seven or eight of their best players. That's a hope for us. We will give our best (shot)," the former India captain said.
"It's a challenge to play with whatever side we have. It's not the Indian team that we can pick for every tour. Once you pick the IPL team, its for two years or three years and we have to do the best we can with them," Ganguly added.
The 39-year-old left-handed batsman was of the opinion that the outfit would miss skipper Yuvraj Singh, undergoing chemotherapy treatment in the United States, but said his health was more important.
"We will miss Yuvraj Singh. He is a quality player in this format. But health is more important."
Asked whether he would be leading the side in Yuvraj's absence, Ganguly said it was for the team owners to decide.
Sahara Remains Indian Team Sponsor: Warriors to Play in IPL-5
The Sahara will continue to sponsor the Indian team and the Pune warriors are going to play in IPL 2012.
Following hours of discussions on 15th and 16th of February, Sahara group and the representatives of BCCI cleared out the sensitive issues and continued towards a positive decision.
In a mutual statement, Subrata Roy, Chairman and Managing Worker, Sahara India Pariwar and N. Srinivasan, President, BCCI, said that the Sahara and BCCI had long discussions on the issue and finally came to an agreement which includes the following.
1. Extension of the trading window that is due to end on 17th February, till 29th February in order to offer an opportunity to Pune Warriors to have successful discussions with other franchises since it seemed to build up its squad.
2. Reactivation of Pune Warriors’s auction purse hence it can obtain few more players, subjecting to the regulations of squad composition.
3. To begin the negotiation dealings instigated by Sahara, through an arbitrator appointment, in order to deal with its claim for a decrease in franchise cost for 74 matches.
4. BCCI is not going to have any problem with Sahara looking for a strategic partner for the Pune Warriors Franchise, under the terms and conditions of the Franchise Agreement.
5. In response to the Sahara’s request to sign foreign players who are not listed in the auction register for IPL 2012, subject to the applicable player regulations, BCCI approved to the Sahara’s request subject to approval from remaining franchisees.
6. Sahara group had also requested for the play off scheduled Bengaluru matches to be held in Pune. BCCI in standard satisfying to organize one of those matches in Pune stadium, subject to the approval from Royal Challengers, Bangalore.
7. BCCI will consider, during the next offered opportunity, Sahara Group’s request to supply Bank Guarantee against its franchisee payment in 2 installments.
8. Despite the latest decision of BCCI working committee in rejecting 5 overseas players in the playing eleven, in reflection of the special circumstance and the unavailability of one of the players of Pune Warriors, Yuvraj Singh, Sahara has been offered to get the decision of other franchises on the same for submission to the BCCI.
The agreement also states that Sahara Group would carry on sponsoring Indian team and that Sahara may want to utilize its right to allot the sponsorship as per the statement.
Sahara Expresses Thanks to BCCI
The chairman of Sahara India Pariwar, Subrata Roy, in an individual statement, conveyed his honest appreciations to all senior members of BCCI for their willing to resolve the problem. He genuinely conveyed thanks to N. Srinivasan, Rajiv Shukla, Sanjay Jagdale, Arun Jaitley, Sundar Raman and Ajay Shirke, and also thanked emotional initiative by Shah Rukh Khan and Shashank Manohar (former President, BCCI).
Mr Roy, addressing their joint statement, mentioned that though one request was not included, BCCI had surely given them an assurance for taking care of the matter seriously in the coming days.
According to him, it is the viewer’s interest that should be offered higher priority. Viewers should have fun watching each and every match, possibly with an exciting end in the final over, which is mostly possible when all the participating teams are well balanced. Sometimes, even too weak teams could begin defusing the appeal of IPL. Hence, there should be a right level-playing field.
Mr Roy, also mentioned that they had strongly requested to involve in an open auction without any retention. Because of the policy of retention, an inequality in the player capability and matching payment figure would be created, he said
Jadeja, Vinay: Raked In Millions At The IPL 5 auction
The IPL 5 auction on the 4th of February witnessed only 69 players getting sold out of the 144 which were in the list for auction. Chennai Super Kings bagged the Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja with the highest buying amount in the auction; $2 million. R Vinay Kumar was another favorite for the IPL franchises as they were raising the level of their bids to have him in their team. Finally it was the Royal Challenger Bangalore who brought the hammer down with the final bid price being $1 million. Both these Indian players had a base bid price of only $100,000 each.
Sunil Narine, a West Indies player was bought by the Kolkata Knight Riders team by shelling out an amount of $700,000. Indian veteran VVS Laxman had a bad day at the auction as none of the franchises were ready to shell out $400,000; which was the base price set for him. His poor performance during the Australian tour must be the reason behind none of the IPL franchises being interested in him. Before lunch time there were 35 players sold at the auction, and the rest 34 after lunch time.
The English and Australian players did not have a good day at the auction because of their uncertainty of availability during the IPL 5th season. The franchises did not want to invest their money on players who are bound by national commitments and cannot guarantee total participation in the IPL.
There were quite a few surprises at the IPL season 5 auctions. The player who flourished during the World Cup last year, Kevin O’Brien was not bought by any of the IPL franchises. Some of the other players who had to face the disappointment of not being bought by any of the IPL franchises this year were James Anderson, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Fidel Edwards, Upal Tharanga, and many others.
BCCI Rejects Sahara’s Demand For Fielding 6 Foreign Players
Two among these are permission to take on a substitute player in place of Yuvraj and permission to field six players from foreign origin.
While the Pune Warriors were granted permission to take on a substitute for Yuvraj Singh, their plea for having six foreign players playing for them was turned down. The BCCI’s working committee appeared to be unanimous in their decision to refuse Sahara Group from fielding the six foreign players citing rules and stating that it would be doing injustice to the eight other franchisees.
The board was of the opinion that this demand was illogical and not consistent with laid down rules that were very clear and contended that therefore they had no option but to turn down the request.
Two other demands were found to be quite reasonable and therefore were granted. The BCCI’s board president made it amply clear that they would have no issues if the Sahara Group found and signed up a substitute for the incapacitated captain Yuvraj and that it was an entitlement which was obviously their right.
The other demand for having a strategic partner was also not contested by the board and granted straight away. The argument in this case being that since Sahara India has pre-committed itself to Rs.1000 crore of All-India Social Development programs, they would have to look for a strategic partner.
The rejection of their demand for accommodating six foreign origin players, however did not go down well with the Sahara India officials and has led to a stalemate kind of a situation in which Sahara India has not only decided to withdraw its team from the fifth edition of the IPL, but have also taken the hard decision to withdraw their sponsorship to the Indian cricket team entirely.
The BCCI has justified its stand by saying that it was going by the rules and stating that in all fairness to the eight other franchisees, it could not possibly think of favoring one single franchise.
However, Mr. Subrata Roy, Chairman of the Sahara Group maintained that the rules were not rigid like the rules of the constitution of the Government of India but rules framed by the BCCI themselves and that they should not follow the rules strictly by the letter, but rather go by its spirit.
The BCCI however, in deference to the fact that Sahara India had sponsored the Team India for well over eleven years now, agreed to a series of meetings to discuss the issue. In these meetings, it transpired that the Sahara Group had put forward the argument that since there was no other player who could match up to the high standards set by Yuvraj, they should be allowed to have an extra player from overseas in the playing eleven.
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