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  • Rajasthan Royals swings for data gold with str8bat in its tech toolkit

    Rajasthan Royals swings for data gold with str8bat in its tech toolkit

    MUMBAI: In cricket, the bat has always done the talking. Now it also listens, calculates, and serves real-time insight in milliseconds. Rajasthan Royals just made a power play off the field, naming str8bat as its official skilling partner for the 2025 IPL season. In doing so, the Royals have officially become cricket’s front-runners in the data game—bat sensors, deep-tech, AI and all.

    This isn’t a fresh start but a next step. The Royals have been using str8bat’s camera-less bat sensor tech since 2019. Now, they’re going all in. The partnership elevates a backroom secret weapon into a headline strategy, making RR the first IPL team to embed this level of performance tech across scouting, training, and match prep.

    “What makes this partnership meaningful is not just their cutting-edge tech, but how seamlessly it plugs into our philosophy of continuous learning and high-performance. Together, we’re building a model where every insight has the power to shape strategy, accelerate development, and unlock new levels of excellence,” said Rajasthan Royals CBO Alok Chitre.

    Str8bat’s genius lies in its sleek, camera-free bat sensor—an innocuous-looking device that captures bat speed, sweet spot accuracy, back-lift angles and more, across every single shot. Think Fitbit for your cover drive. And it’s not just for net geeks: these numbers go straight into the Royals’ coaching playbook.

    “str8bat’s real-time, data-driven insights allow us to spot micro improvements in technique while also shaping macro strategies that carry through from the nets to live matches. It’s not just about refining a shot—it’s about transforming a player’s entire approach to the game. This could very well be cricket’s Moneyball moment, marking a seismic shift towards data-led decision-making in the sport,” said Rajasthan Royals batting coach Vikram Rathour.

    Over 25 million data points flow through str8bat’s platform every month, powering the dreams of thousands of players, from grassroots kids to pro cricketers with stadium-sized ambitions. For Royals, it’s now a must-have in scouting camps: every hopeful swings with str8bat, generating metrics that can nudge decisions on selection, auction picks, and player development.

    “To be named the official skilling partner of Rajasthan Royals is an honour and a huge milestone for str8bat. What sets RR apart is their willingness to put data at the heart of their cricketing philosophy. Our tech doesn’t just enhance performance—it transforms how performance is measured, understood, and improved,” said str8bat co-founder & CEO Gagan Daga.

    No other IPL team has embraced this level of integration—a bold innings for data disciples. As T20 cricket demands sharper innovation and smarter strategies, Royals are betting on numbers, not nostalgia. And in this match-up, tech’s not just a support act—it’s opening the batting.

    “We’ve introduced a new language in cricket—one based on objective metrics and deep-tech,” added Daga. “With the Royals, we’re not just helping players train better, we’re reshaping how talent is discovered, nurtured, and elevated.”

    Str8bat might not swing a bat, but it sure knows how to swing a franchise into the future.

  • Filmmaker Jitendra Mishra takes the global stage with CIFEJ presidency win

    Filmmaker Jitendra Mishra takes the global stage with CIFEJ presidency win

    MUMBAI: Forget red carpets and film festival fanfare – this win’s about kids, culture, and a camera roll full of global vision. Indian filmmaker and flagbearer of meaningful cinema Jitendra Mishra has just snagged the big seat as International Centre of Films for Children and Young People (CIFEJ) president, and he didn’t need a vote-off to do it. His unopposed, unanimous election was a rare feat, backed by over 50 members across 40 countries. Yes, that many.

    The UNESCO-supported body, which has been promoting culturally relevant children’s cinema since 1955, now has a fresh Indian face at its helm – someone who’s walked the walk with Smile International Film Festival for Children and Youth (SIFFCY). As SIFFCY festival director and long-time cinema-for-change crusader, Mishra’s latest role is no accident.

    It’s a perfect reel-to-real story.

    “I am deeply honoured and grateful for the trust and support of my fellow members at CIFEJ. This unanimous success is not just a personal achievement but a testament to our shared vision of empowering young minds through meaningful cinema. I am also sincerely thankful to the management of Smile Foundation for their unwavering support and commitment towards this. Together, we will continue to champion films and related activities that inspire, educate, and celebrate cultural diversity for children and youth worldwide,” said Mishra.

    CIFEJ, born in Brussels and now headquartered in Athens, Greece, isn’t just a symbolic outfit. It’s a full-throttle platform pushing for top-notch audio-visual content that speaks to, with and for young people. And with Smile Foundation backing and cultural clout on his side, Mishra is expected to turn that volume way up.

    Backing the sentiment, SIFFCY chair & producer of I Am Kalam, Santanu Mishra added, “I believe that audio-visual medium, especially good cinema, has the power to stimulate discussion and contemplation in young minds about personal, emotional, societal and moral duties. Thus, it can enable young global citizens to become better, stronger and empathetic individuals. Our support and good wishes are there for CIFEJ to help bring positive societal change that begins with the young minds.”

    The newly elected board reads like a film festival guest list: Pamela Bisson (Canada), Doros Demetriou (Cyprus), Huang Jun (China), Anis Lassoued (Tunisia), Emma Pendiuc (Romania), Elham Shrivani (Iran), and Mitsuo Tahira (Japan). Greek representatives Vassilis Karamitsanis and Irene Andriopoulou will serve as secretary general and executive director respectively.

    “We aspire for the transfer of the CIFEJ headquarters in Athens, through EKOME, to mark the beginning of a new era for the organisation and to strengthen high-quality children’s audio-visual content in Greece as well. The new CIFEJ president and board do hold great credentials to this direction,” said Karamitsanis.

    So, while Mishra sharpens his vision for youth-driven global storytelling, the message is clear: popcorn isn’t the only thing worth warming up. The future of cinema is in the hands of young minds—and the man leading the charge is ready to roll.

  • Fintech hits a six as Finkeda partners with Gujarat Titans this season

    Fintech hits a six as Finkeda partners with Gujarat Titans this season

    MUMBAI: Batting for Bharat, the fintech way, Gujarat Titans just scored a new partner in their lineup, and this one’s here to digitise your wallet. Leading digital banking platform Finkeda (also known as Ikeda) has officially joined hands with the IPL franchise as an official partner, aiming to bring smarter financial solutions to cricket fans across India’s tier 2, 3 and 4 cities.

    As Gujarat Titans ramp up efforts to boost fan engagement and digital access, Finkeda is stepping up to the crease with its wide suite of services, ranging from Aadhar-enabled banking and micro ATMs to mutual funds, bill payments and P2P lending. The move underscores a growing trend: the fusion of cricketing fervour and financial inclusion.

    Gujarat Titans COO Colonel Arvinder Singh said, “This association with Finkeda aligns with our larger goal of broadening avenues for seamless user experience. With their expertise in fintech and digital financial solutions, GT fans are up for some exciting new opportunities to know finances better. We are hopeful that this will add up to an enriching overall experience combined with the excitement of play.”

    Finkeda, chairman and managing director Manish Kumar Goyal said, “Gujarat Titans have shown the country and the world that it is possible to be a disruptor despite being new and competing with established players. It is a proud moment for all of us at Finkeda to be a sponsor of Gujarat Titans, a team that has created such a huge impact in such little time. We share their passion and motivation to win and believe that every individual and business, regardless of where they are located in India, deserve access to efficient and state-of-the-art fintech solutions.”

    Since launching in 2019, Finkeda has grown rapidly as a one-stop fintech destination for both urban and rural India. By tapping into Gujarat Titans’ roaring fan base, the brand is looking to deepen its roots in untapped markets, one six at a time.

    With fintech and cricket joining forces, fans can expect more than just boundaries and bouncers this season they’ll be banking on better financial literacy too.

  • Pro Panja League season two returns to Sony Sports on 5 August 2025

    Pro Panja League season two returns to Sony Sports on 5 August 2025

    MUMBAI: Pro Panja League, is set to return with its second season on Sony Sports Network from 5 August 2025, right after the India vs England cricket series wraps up. The league will air daily for two hours on Sony Sports Ten 3 channels (SD and HD), ensuring viewers enjoy an uninterrupted run of top-tier sporting action.

    Riding high on the success of its debut edition, the tournament known for its IPL-style franchise format promises 17 action-packed days of gripping arm wrestling battles as top athletes from across India clash for glory. Season one saw Kochi KD’s emerge as champions after a nail-biting final.

    The comeback of Pro Panja comes amid growing enthusiasm for the sport. Season one attracted 32 million unique viewers across Sony Sports and Doordarshan, outperforming several new sporting leagues in India, according to BARC data.

    Pro Panja League co-founder Parvinn Dabass said, “The response to our first season was beyond expectations. Arm wrestling has evolved into a professional sport with rising athlete standards and packed arenas our Mizoram showcase saw crowds of up to 20,000. Season two will raise the bar even higher.”

    With elevated production, intense rivalries, and a fan base that’s rapidly expanding, Pro Panja League is poised to become a household favourite, bringing the thrill of raw strength and strategy into living rooms nationwide.

  • TV9 rallies India Inc with Gopichand for smashing badminton showdown

    TV9 rallies India Inc with Gopichand for smashing badminton showdown

    MUMBAI: Move over boardroom battles, it’s time to settle scores on the badminton court. TV9 Network has announced the launch of the News9 Corporate Badminton Championship, in partnership with the Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy, bringing a new spin to corporate fitness and team spirit.

    After scoring big with its Corporate Football Cup, TV9 is now rallying professionals to pick up their rackets. The championship promises more than just a shuttle showdown, it’s a celebration of work-life balance, camaraderie, and competitive flair.

    TV9 Network MD & CEO Barun Das said, “We believe in sporting events that go beyond competition. They inspire fitness, teamwork and a sense of community. The Corporate Badminton Championship is another step in building a larger ecosystem of corporate sport.”

    With Hyderabad’s legendary sporting legacy as its backdrop, the championship finds a fitting home at the Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy, a temple of talent that has produced Olympic stars like PV Sindhu and Saina Nehwal.

    TV9 Network-South, chief operating officer, and News9 director corporate badminton championship Vikram K said, “Hyderabad has long been celebrated as a hub for well-established industries like IT, Pharma, Biotech, and Startups. But beyond being a business powerhouse, it has also emerged as a cradle of sporting excellence producing icons like Pullela Gopichand, Sania Mirza, VVS Laxman, Saina Nehwal, PV Sindhu, Satwik Sairaj, and Chirag Shetty and more. We are proud to launch the first season of the News9 Corporate Badminton Championship in this city of champions. With the legacy of Padma Bhushan Pullela Gopichand as a backdrop, this tournament is a salute to both passion and performance. It offers working professionals a well-deserved break from the daily hustle, a chance to compete, connect, and celebrate their love for sport. At TV9, we believe in building communities that thrive not just at work, but also in well-being and togetherness.”

    India National Badminton Team chief national coach Pullela Gopichand said, “Badminton has given me everything and I believe it has something to offer everyone. With the News9 Corporate Badminton Championship, we’re bringing that passion, love of the game to the corporate world. Join us and be a part of this exciting movement!”

    The format includes Men’s and Open categories, with singles and doubles matches. Open Category teams must include at least one female player, encouraging inclusive participation.

    But this isn’t just about bragging rights. Winners stand to bag cash prizes of up to Rs 6,00,000, along with exclusive two-day coaching sessions at the prestigious Gopichand Academy. They’ll also receive invites to elite badminton tournaments across India making this a game-changing opportunity for rising talent.  

    The tournament is open to companies and LLPs that have been operational for at least two years with a minimum of ten employees. It’s a rare opportunity for professionals to swap presentations for precision smashes and play under the guidance of the very coach who shaped India’s badminton dreams.

    As the courts light up and teams take their positions, TV9’s latest initiative proves that the real corporate champions might just be found in sports shoes, not suits. Let the rallies begin!

  • Nick of time keeps kids glued for 11th year running

    Nick of time keeps kids glued for 11th year running

    MUMBAI: Nick has done it again and how! India’s favourite kids’ entertainment channel has scored a smashing 11th consecutive year at the No. 1 spot in the kids’ genre, proving that when it comes to young eyeballs, it still rules the remote.

    Backed by a vibrant lineup of homegrown IPs and stories that strike a chord with both children and their parents, Nick’s secret sauce lies in its ability to entertain while staying relatable. Leading the charge is ‘Chikoo Aur Bunty’, the show that has remained the No. 1 in the category for three years straight, a feat as rare as a perfectly quiet playdate. Not far behind is the ever-endearing ‘Motu Patlu’, still a favourite across age groups and proving good storytelling never goes out of style.

    JioStar, president -for entertainment Alok Jain said “With 4 out of 5 kids in India tuning into our kids’ franchise, and the rise of co-viewing, particularly among young parents, we see this as a testament to the trust, relatability and deeper engagement our stories create. Shows like Chikoo Aur Bunty, which have held the 1 spot in the kids’ category for 3 consecutive years, demonstrate the powerful connection Nick enjoys with kids and families. Nick being the No.1 kids’ channel for 11 years straight is not just a reflection of viewership, but the deep emotional bond we’ve cultivated across generations. We look forward to bringing in non-stop entertainment for kids and families with our beloved characters and engaging stories.”

    And Nick’s impact goes far beyond just kids. It ranks among the top General Entertainment Channels (GECs) on both Pay TV and Free-To-Air platforms, a nod to the growing trend of families watching together no remote wars necessary.

    From digital campaigns to live events, influencer tie-ups to school-based engagements, Nick has created an ecosystem that extends far beyond the living room. Whether it’s mall activations, games, merchandise, or its strong social media presence, Nick has ensured it’s part of a child’s world 24/7 both online and offline.

    As the channel steps into another year, expect more original shows, fresh characters, and stories that blend fun with heart. Because if there’s one thing Nick has proven, it’s that when it comes to kidertainment, it’s always ahead of the game by a whisker, or maybe a bright orange hair.

  • Fast friends Bigbasket and RCB team up for a 10-minute delivery innings

    Fast friends Bigbasket and RCB team up for a 10-minute delivery innings

    MUMBAI: 10 minutes, andre? Bigbasket. That’s the punchy hook powering a fresh partnership between India’s favourite grocer and Bengaluru’s beloved IPL franchise. In a pitch-perfect move, Bigbasket, a Tata enterprise, has teamed up with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as the official quick commerce partner for the 2025 Indian Premier League season.

    This isn’t just about bats and bags of groceries, it’s a collaboration that blends Bengaluru’s cultural vibe with the shared values of speed, trust, and local pride. Bigbasket’s lightning-fast 10-minute delivery promise and RCB’s electrifying fanbase are coming together in a campaign that feels as local as filter coffee on a rainy Bengaluru morning.

    To mark the association, bigbasket launched a hyperlocal digital campaign starring none other than Virat Kohli, joined by his RCB squad, engaging in a spirited Kannada wordplay around “andre” (meaning “means”). Whether it’s “Chilling, andre?” (Cubbon Park) or “10 minutes, andre?” (Bigbasket), the ad culminates with comedian Danish Sait, in his Mr. Nags avatar, dressed as a bigbasket delivery partner, stealing the show with a cheeky wink to city life. The campaign has already racked up 9.5 million organic views on Instagram, with cricket legends AB de Villiers, Chris Gayle, and Dinesh Karthik also joining the digital huddle.

    Speaking about this, Bigbasket co-founder & CEO Hari Menon said, “RCB isn’t just a team, it’s a symbol of Bengaluru’s energy, diversity, and resilience. At bigbasket, we see ourselves as a reflection of the same spirit, with our focus on speed, trust, and customer delight. This partnership is a natural extension of our commitment to serving Bengaluru, both on and off the pitch.”

    This IPL season, fans can expect a strong digital presence from bigbasket across RCB’s platforms, complete with behind-the-scenes content, interactive experiences, and on-ground activations like a “Selfie Kiosk” at stadiums, allowing fans to virtually click pics with their cricketing idols.

    Backed by a 10-minute delivery service across 25 plus cities, with over 5,000 plus daily essentials on offer, bigbasket’s quick commerce model is batting for convenience and local love. The RCB association amplifies that brand promise bringing fans a seamless blend of cricket, culture, and consumer delight, all in the time it takes to order a quick snack during an over break.

  • Punjab Kings joins hands with Moengage to elevate fan experience

    Punjab Kings joins hands with Moengage to elevate fan experience

    MUMBAI: Punjab Kings has announced a dynamic collaboration with customer engagement platform Moengage, aiming to take fan experience to the next level with data-driven personalisation and omnichannel automation.

    The cricket club is set to harness Moengage’s analytics capabilities to refine digital interactions, automate fan journeys, and run targeted merchandise campaigns all tailored to fan behaviour and preferences. This move is part of the team’s wider ambition to foster lasting fan relationships and drive meaningful engagement across platforms.

    Punjab Kings will also use the platform to track website activity, collect feedback and referrals, and personalise user experiences based on retention cohorts.

    “We’re thrilled to work with Moengage as we aim to build stronger connections with our fans,” said Punjab Kings chief commercial officer Saurabh Arora. “Their advanced tools now allow us to craft experiences that truly resonate—something we couldn’t achieve without a unified engagement system.”

    Moengage vice president of sales – India Shivangi Boghani added, “This partnership is a fantastic step for sports engagement. With our tech, Punjab Kings can connect with fans more intelligently and meaningfully setting a fresh benchmark in fan-centric strategy.”

    With the cricket season in full swing, this collaboration is set to redefine how franchises interact with their supporters creating richer, more relevant experiences that last well beyond match days.

  • Eurosport India kicks off exclusive MLS Sundays with Messi magic

    Eurosport India kicks off exclusive MLS Sundays with Messi magic

    MUMBAI: Indian football fans, buckle up your boots and clear your Sunday night schedule—Lionel Messi is now part of your weekly primetime ritual. Warner Bros. Discovery just pulled off a neat bit of transfer business of its own, handing Eurosport India the exclusive broadcast rights to Major League Soccer’s (MLS) new crown jewel: Sunday Night Soccer.

    Announced on 8 April 2025, the deal ensures that Indian audiences can now catch some of the world’s biggest football names—Messi, Suárez, Busquets, Alba and more—every Sunday, live and exclusive on Eurosport and Eurosport HD.

    The MLS Sunday Night Soccer initiative is the league’s glitzy new primetime spectacle, pitting top-tier clubs and fierce rivals against each other in weekly headline fixtures. Expect fireworks from marquee matchups like El Tráfico (LA Galaxy vs LAFC), the Hudson River Derby (Red Bulls vs NYCFC), and the Cascadia Cup (Seattle Sounders vs Portland Timbers vs Vancouver Whitecaps).

    The 2025 season builds on a blockbuster 2024 campaign where LA Galaxy snatched their sixth MLS Cup, while Inter Miami CF, co-owned by David Beckham and stacked with Barcelona alumni, topped the regular season to win their maiden Supporters’ Shield.

    Sunday Night Soccer is Major League Soccer’s new prime-time initiative for 2025 season, showcasing the most high-stakes and headline-worthy match of the week. It also aims to become MLS’s marquee viewing event, drawing fans together across time zones.

    With this high-profile addition, Eurosport India continues to flex its muscle as a destination for premium global sport, already home to world-class content across cycling, motorsport, wrestling and more. Now, with Messi’s left foot gracing Indian screens every Sunday, they’ve added a golden boot to the lineup.

  • Grit, grooves and growing stars take centre stage as Spotlight hits season three

    Grit, grooves and growing stars take centre stage as Spotlight hits season three

    MUMBAI: From showroom floor to streaming charts, Hyundai is back to tuning India into fresh sounds. On 8 April 2025, Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) rolled out season three of Hyundai Spotlight, its buzzing artist-first music platform powered in partnership with Universal Music Group for Brands (UMGB).

    The goal? Take rising artists from playlists to primetime.

    After clocking over 150 million YouTube views and delivering 12 original tracks in its first two seasons, the platform now welcomes a brand-new wave of sonic storytellers. This time, expect a six-track series featuring dynamic collabs between big-ticket names and breakout stars. Think Javed Ali, Aditya Rikhari, Gajendra Verma, Wazir Patar, DigV and more jamming with exciting young voices like Vidhya Gopal, Jeona Sandhu, and Ravator. The first drop, Koyal, is already out and turning ears.

    “At Hyundai, innovation and customer experience are at the heart of everything we do. Hyundai Spotlight embodies this vision, creating a platform that blends talent with innovation to deliver unparalleled entertainment. More than just a stage, it is a movement that nurtures and empowers young Indian artists to express themselves through music. Hyundai Spotlight deeply resonates with our aspirational customer base, offering an unforgettable experience and fueling the dreams of an enthusiastic audience. Our collaboration with UMGB over the past two years has been incredibly rewarding, built on a shared commitment to excellence. As we launch the third edition, I am confident that this year will be an even greater success, driven by the energy and artistry of exceptional musicians across our great country,” said Hyundai Motor India Ltd whole-time director & COO Tarun Garg.

    Since its launch in December 2021, Hyundai Spotlight has pushed boundaries by pairing emerging talent with industry icons for collaborative originals. What began as an auto brand’s foray into culture has become a legit launchpad for the country’s next musical legends.

    “Artist-first is a motto that we at UMG have ingrained within our very fabric. It’s at the core of our business and with Hyundai, we have found the perfect partner to take this forward into the consumer space. The very thought of giving new emerging music talent a chance to collaborate with some of the most established names in the business, in order to create music that is at once relevant and resonates, is an exciting one. We have worked on this dream painstakingly now for over three years, spanning two seasons, and created an enabling platform for artists of all ages to express themselves. We applaud and we stand as proud collaborators with Hyundai on this journey, as we enter Season 3. I hope we continue on this path for many seasons to come,” said Universal Music India and south Asia chairman & CEO Devraj Sanyal.

    The launch event in Mumbai didn’t shy away from star power either. Artists, creators, and fans showed up in full throttle, proving that Spotlight isn’t just a campaign — it’s a scene. With AI-generated acoustics, acoustic remixes, and genre-bending collabs promised, this season isn’t about playing it safe. It’s about playing it loud, proud, and unapologetically different.

    What next? Five more original tracks, genre mashups, and possibly the next viral voice. Hyundai Spotlight isn’t just hitting play. It’s rewiring how brands, beats, and dreams collide.