T20 cricket has become a global sensation, captivating fans worldwide with its fast-paced action. The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) is set to add to the excitement by introducing a new league to the cricketing landscape. This league inclusion promises to further elevate the popularity of the T20 format, offering fans another thrilling platform to enjoy the sport. With the CAB’s initiative, cricket enthusiasts can anticipate even more excitement and entertainment in the world of T20 cricket.
Bengal T20 Pro League: New Inclusion in T20 List:
Following the conclusion of the IPL in early June 2024, cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the commencement of the Bengal Pro T20 League (BPL), organized by the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB). This inaugural edition promises to deliver excitement with its franchise-based teams competing in a thrilling tournament. As fans anticipate the action-packed matches and fierce competition, the BPL marks a significant addition to the cricketing calendar, offering a fresh platform for players and fans alike to engage with the T20 format.
While talking about the league, CAB president Snehasis Ganguly said, “We’ve been planning to organise a franchise-based league for some time now. After conducting a thorough study of similar leagues in India and abroad, we’re finally prepared to launch the Bengal Pro T20 League this year. We’ve obtained all the necessary permissions from the BCCI, and the blueprint for the league is firmly in place.”
He further said, “Our goal is to ensure that this league sets the standard for excellence, providing budding talents from all corners of West Bengal with the exposure and opportunities they need to play cricket at a professional level. We’ll have 8 franchise teams, each comprising both men’s and women’s teams as per the criteria and pool provided by the CAB.”
The League Model:
Emulating the IPL’s city-based team naming convention, the Bengal Pro T20 League will adopt a similar approach, naming teams after cities and districts of West Bengal, extending their reach across multiple districts for inclusivity. Notable business entities have pledged ownership, with the CAB striving to complete all team slots by mid-month. Additionally, the CAB encourages prominent businesses to join as sponsors and partners, fostering greater engagement and investment in Bengal’s cricketing landscape.
In the debut season, franchises will employ a comprehensive draft system to select players from diverse categories, including Bengal seniors and talents from district catchment areas, adhering to CAB directives. This inclusive method aims to provide opportunities for cricketers across the state to shine in Bengal cricket’s premier league. Each team will comprise a squad of 17 men and 16 women, totaling 264 top cricketers from Bengal, showcasing their prowess on this prestigious platform.
The CAB plans to implement a Code of Conduct for all participating teams, mirroring the standards set by the ICC and BCCI. Furthermore, the Anti-Corruption Unit of the BCCI will oversee the entire league, ensuring fair play and integrity. To provide a conducive environment, teams, and their support staff will be hosted in luxurious 5-star hotels for the duration of the tournament, prioritizing their comfort and well-being during this prestigious event.
The CAB will establish pools of coaches and support staff sourced from Bengal, following BCCI guidelines, for franchise selection. Cash prizes await champions and runners-up in both men’s and women’s leagues. The league-and-knockout format features 31 matches for each category, with men’s games hosted at Eden Gardens and women’s at Jadavpur University. Men’s matches air on a premier sports channel, while women’s are streamed on a top OTT platform.
To engage Bengal’s passionate cricket community, CAB offers free entry at both venues this season, fostering support for budding Indian cricket stars. IPL teams are invited to scout talent for their franchises. Arivaa Sports Private Limited is chosen as the exclusive management partner, ensuring a professional league setup on par with IPL standards, and prioritizing the optimal experience for players, support staff, and officials.
Rishabh Bhatia’s Statement Regarding the League:
Rishabh Bhatia, owner of a league team, aims to champion the principles of teamwork, integrity, and fair play. His vision underscores a commitment to upholding these values throughout the tournament, fostering a positive and ethical sporting environment.
He said, ” We are so excited to be a part of the Bengal Pro T20League are looking forward to how it unfolds. it is a new opportunity for us and we are doing our best. When we talk about our vision, it is to establish ourselves as a formidable force on the cricketing stage and create a healthy sporting culture and energize young talent.”
He further said, “We want to develop community engagement by connecting with fans on a personal level and representing their hopes and aspirations. through our participation in the league, we seek to promote the values of teamwork, integrity and fair play while contributing positively to the growth and development of cricket in the Bengal region, ultimately, leaving a lasting legacy, not only in terms of sporting achievements but also in the hearts and minds of cricket enthusiasts everywhere.”
He added, “Servotech has always believed in shared successes and forming long-lasting connections. Our aspirations as a franchise team owner are very clear, here also we seek to create strong emotional connections with our team, fans and supporters and enjoy successes with them be it big or small.”
He concluded with, “We want to understand the game more and create a space where the right talent can flourish and explore itself. Additionally, our entry into the sports sector will in a way help expand our reach and establish our brand among the sports audience.”
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram and Instagram
