The Indian Street Premier League (ISPL) is a tennis-ball T10 cricket tournament played inside a stadium. Launched in 2024, the ISPL is designed to unite and showcase cricket talent. With a threefold mission of identification, development, and promotion, this league is a catalyst for nurturing grassroots-level cricketers.
Recognising the challenges faced by the talented players in gaining visibility and opportunities, ISPL aims to provide a well-organised and competitive platform. This structure it explains not only benefits individual players but also elevates the overall standard of cricket in the region.
The league’s forward-thinking approach is underscored by its commitment to building a platform for future cricket superstars. By investing in grassroots development, ISPL contributes not only to the immediate success of emerging players but also to the sustained growth and excellence of cricket. ISPL emerges as a pivotal force in shaping the trajectory of cricket.
Medianews4u.com caught up with Suraj Samat League Commissioner and Core Committee Member ISPL
Q. How did the idea for the Indian Street Premier League (ISPL) come about?
The idea for ISPL was born out of a burning passion for tennis-ball cricket! We wanted to give street cricket a professional platform that would celebrate its nostalgic charm and provide a stage for raw talent to shine. ISPL is about taking the heart of street cricket and turning it into an entertainment spectacle that every cricket lover can enjoy.
Q. Is ISPL basically a participation sport?
ISPL is built on the foundation of grassroots tennis-ball cricket. We’re giving local players from communities a chance to showcase their skills on a grand stage. We aim to bridge the gap between casual participation and professional opportunities while keeping the community spirit alive.
Q. Though the scale cannot be compared, are there any learnings from the IPL?
We’ve drawn valuable lessons from the IPL on fan engagement, operational excellence, and building a league that resonates with diverse audiences. The IPL’s success has shown us the importance of creating immersive experiences, leveraging star power, and prioritising storytelling to build connections with fans.
Q. What is the game plan to take things to the next level in the second season?
This season, we have introduced DRS. Our fans will now get to experience the game with detailed analysis, speed guns, and hawk-eye technology. We’re consistently focussed on providing a level of detail and analysis that’s unparalleled in Indian sports broadcasting.
For Season 3, we’re expanding trials to more cities, enhancing fan engagement with larger fan parks, and delivering richer content through our broadcasting and digital partnerships. We’ve also brought in more celebrity ambassadors, added interactive elements for fans, and fine-tuned operations to make the league bigger, smoother, and more impactful.
Q. What is the investment being made in the league by ISPL and the various team owners?
The league and its team owners are collectively investing heavily to ensure ISPL’s success. Akshay Kumar’s team, Srinagar Ke Veer, for instance, was sold for Rs. 300 crore, reflecting the growing belief in the league’s potential. Our focus is on long-term sustainability, talent development, and building a loyal fan-base.
Q. What breakeven is targetted, and what are the various revenue sources?
While breakeven timelines vary, we’re prioritizing building a strong foundation for the league. Our revenue sources include sponsorships, team ownership sales, broadcasting rights, and fan-focused initiatives. As ISPL grows in popularity, we expect these streams to expand significantly.
Q. The league generated Rs. 25-30 crore sponsorship revenue in its first year. In the second year, with companies like Predator coming in, what growth in revenue is expected?
We’re seeing significant growth in sponsorship interest this season, with high-profile brands like Predator recognising ISPL’s potential. While it’s early to quantify the exact growth, the trend suggests a considerable increase in revenue compared to Season 1.
Q. How did the partnership with Mirchi and Gaana come about?
Our partnership with Mirchi and Gaana is rooted in their ability to amplify ISPL’s reach and connect with diverse audiences. Music and cricket are universal passions in India, and this collaboration enables us to create a more immersive and entertaining experience for fans.
Q. What marketing activities is ISPL doing to create awareness about the league?
We’re leveraging a mix of digital and on-ground campaigns to engage fans. From high-energy fan parks and social media contests to celebrity endorsements and exclusive behind-the-scenes content, ISPL is making its presence felt.
Q. As the ISPL looks to scale up, what is going to be the challenge?
Scaling up brings logistical and operational challenges, but we’re confident about overcoming them. Our focus is on maintaining the grassroots essence while expanding reach and managing higher expectations. With a passionate team and learnings from Season 1, we’re ready to take ISPL to new heights!
