As unfair as it might be to the other sports, but the fan-following that the game of cricket gets in India is beyond crazy with the crowd flocking to the stadiums to cheer their superstars while millions of others sit glued in front of the TV sets biting their nails away in excitement. India has evolved as a cricket playing nation over the years to become the World Champion in the 50-over format twice and the World T20 champion once in their illustrious history.
The Test format, however, is the true pinnacle of the sport and with the Men in Blue set to play their 500th match in the longest format of the game, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), who are doing their bit to promote Test cricket having lined up as many as 13 Tests in the 2016-17 home season, beginning with the landmark contest against New Zealand at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur.
On the eve of the momentous occasion, the BCCI wants to provide the cricket-crazy fans – who have helped cricket reach the zenith of sports in India – an opportunity to get involved, launching a ‘ Dream Team’ initiative.
This fan-engagement drive on the Indian Cricket Team’s official Facebook page will see the followers get a chance to vote for their dream eleven out an illustrious list of players to have donned the Indian colours since their first Test way back in 1932.
Talking about the initiative, BCCI president Anurag Thakur said: “I have always believed that the heart of the game lies with its fans and what better way to celebrate the historic moment of 500th Test match by giving the fans a chance to vote for their ‘Dream Team’. I am pleased that over 100,000 cricket fans have already voted to pick their top-order in the ‘Dream Team’ and I expect that number to grow manifolds in coming days.”
BCCI secretary Ajay Shirke also had his say on the social media initiative by the BCCI that has generated much hype.
“This is a great campaign for the Indian cricket fans to come together and pick their favourite players in their team. We are expecting our fans to give a healthy competition to the legends of the game in their Dream Team,” Shirke said.
BCCI unveil official financial services partner
The huge fan-following that the game has in India has also helped the BCCI emerge as one of the most powerful players in modern day cricket and their financial might will be further boosted after it was revealed that Janalakshmi Financial Services (Jana), a Non-Banking Financial Company, with its headquarters in Bangalore, had been roped in as an associate sponsor of the BCCI and will be the official financial services partner for the next three years.
“I am delighted to announce this three-year long association as it further strengthens our belief in India Cricket,” the BCCI President said.
“I am pleased to announce BCCI’s partnership with Janalakshmi Financial Services. Like the BCCI for whom the fan holds a high place, the Jana believes in forging a strong connect with the consumer.
“The latest tie-up shows that India Cricket is taking big strides on and off the field. As we commence the mega home season, I thank our new partner and look forward to their lasting support.”
The move holds much significance with the busy home season ahead proving exciting times for the Indian cricket team that has a chance of ending up as the No. 1 ranked Test side by the time the home season comes to an end. The 2017 Champions Trophy as well as the 2019 World Cup will also come under the three-year contract period between the BCCI and Jana and undoubtedly, the latter will benefit a lot from the arrangement
As per the contract terms, they will have their brand name and logo displayed at various stadiums across India as well as on-ground advertising during match days.
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