DDCA appoints Virender Sehwag as brand ambassador of inaugural season of Delhi Premier League

The grand launch event also witnessed unveiling of the DPL trophy, franchise owners, and team jerseys

DPL is set to run from 17th August to 8th September 2024, with all matches taking place at Shri Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. The inaugural season of the T20 league will consist of 40 matches, including 33 games in the men’s category and 7 in the women’s.

Rakesh Thapliyal

New Delhi: The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) on Friday announced former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag as the brand ambassador for the inaugural season of the Delhi Premier League (DPL). The announcement was made during a grand launch event for the league held in New Delhi. Present on the occasion was the entire Apex Council of DDCA.

The DDCA is excited to introduce the DPL as a premier T20 cricket competition. The league, which is chaired by the league commissioner Shri Bimal Julka, a retired IAS officer, aims to showcase the best cricketing talent from Delhi and beyond, offering a platform for emerging players to shine and for seasoned professionals to continue inspiring fans. The involvement of DDCA, a cornerstone institution in Delhi’s cricketing landscape, ensures a strong foundation for the league’s success.

Notably, the launch event also revealed the six franchises and their owners. A total of six men’s teams were sold for INR 49.65 crore. The franchise names and owners are as follows:

Men’s Teams:

– South Delhi Superstars – Acquired by Real Force Resources Pvt Ltd for INR 8.95 crore

– Purani Dilli 6 – Acquired by SISL Infotech Pvt. Ltd. for INR 8 crore

– Central Delhi Kings – Acquired by Utech Developers Pvt. Ltd. for INR 8.25 crore

– North Delhi Strikers – Acquired by Gupta Jee Tent Services Pvt. Ltd. for INR 8.15 crore

– West Delhi Lions – Acquired by Brew Force Limited for INR 8 crore

– East Delhi Riders – Acquired by Areion Finserve Pvt. Ltd. for INR 8.3 crore

The top four bidders in the men’s franchise auction also secured the women’s teams, which include:

– South Delhi Superstars – Real Force Resources Pvt Ltd

– Central Delhi Queens – Utech Developers Pvt. Ltd.

– North Delhi Strikers – Gupta Jee Tent Services Pvt. Ltd.

– East Delhi Riders – Areion Finserve Pvt. Ltd.

Speaking at the launch event, Mr Rohan Jaitley, President, Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) said, “We are honoured to have Virender Sehwag, one of India’s greatest cricketing legends, as the brand ambassador of the DPL. His passion for the game and his deep roots in Delhi cricket make him the perfect choice to inspire and guide the next generation of players. His involvement will undoubtedly add tremendous value to the league.”

“Also, the unveiling of the DPL Trophy and the jerseys for all franchises symbolizes the start of an exciting journey. We are proud to showcase the unique identities of each team and the spirit of competition they bring to the league. This event is a celebration of Delhi’s rich cricketing heritage and a glimpse into the bright future we envision for the sport in our region,” he added.

Meanwhile, Virender Sehwag, who is known for his explosive batting style and fearless approach, expressed his excitement for being appointed as the brand ambassador of the DPL and said, “I am excited to join the Delhi Premier League as its brand ambassador. Delhi has always been close to my heart, and I believe this league will provide a fantastic platform for young and talented cricketers from the region to shine. I look forward to being a part of this exciting journey and contributing to the growth of cricket in the Capital.”

DPL is set to run from 17th August to 8th September 2024, with all matches taking place at Shri Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. The inaugural season of the T20 league will consist of 40 matches, including 33 games in the men’s category and 7 in the women’s.