T20 format will make cricket a global sport, says Joy Bhattacharjya in an exclusive interview

Joy Bhattacharjya

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has become an integral part of the cricket calendar, with most nations planning their itineraries around the competition. Kolkata Knight Riders are one of the most successful teams in the IPL, and also one of the rare franchise teams that have actually managed to make a profit. I had the opportunity to have a brief conversation with the CEO of KKR Joy Bhattacharjya and here are the excerpts from the interview:

Who is your favourite cricketer and why?

There are many who I really admire. But my personal favourite would be Wasim Akram. A great cricketer and an equally good human being.

Most memorable moment that you've witnessed on the cricket field

Again, many moments, but the one I enjoyed most was India's amazing win at Eden Gardens against Australia after following on. Amazing knocks from Laxman and Dravid and some superb bowling from Harbhajan, backed by the greatest cricket crowd in the world

What other sports do you follow? Who are your other favourite sportsmen/sportswomen?

I follow basketball very seriously. I was a huge fan of Kareem Abdul Jabbar, and currently enjoy the way Kobe Bryant plays. I also really appreciate the attitude of Ryan Giggs and his commitment to his team over two decades

Shah Rukh Khan is probably the single biggest star in Indian cinema and his association with KKR has been wonderful to say the least, considering KKR's stupendous record. What does he lend to the team?

He is a self-made man, and so he understands the kind of pressure and struggle players have to go through. He does a wonderful job of supporting them without putting any additional emotional burden.

The IPL emerged out of the blue in 2008 and since then India has won a World Cup, a Champions Trophy and have conquered places where the players of yesteryears faltered. Yet, a few people condemn it. What do you think about it?

The three-hour twenty-over format is what will make cricket a global sport. 5 days or even one-day is too long for other countries to start playing the game. The IPL is the culmination of this T20 format and is the start of a new world order in cricket

Indian cricket has seen one of its greatest generations gradually phased out and many youngsters emerging to replace them. What are your thoughts on the recent crop of cricketers?

We have a brilliant crop in terms of talent. Pujara, Kohli, Dhawan, Umesh, Jadeja, Rahane all have immense potential. They just need to have the tenacity and grit of the Tendulkar's and Dravid's to keep India at the highest level

What are India's chances in retaining the World Cup next year?

It will be difficult as the wickets there do not suit or style of play. All we can do is wait and watch as to how the team plays it out.

How do you think sports other than cricket can be improved in our country?

Professionalise associations - make them accountable. The honourary system has killed Indian sport with corrupt politicians refusing to give up their posts.

Few lines for upcoming cricketers.

First enjoy the game - then if you feel you have a chance at the top rung, give it your all!