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Category: Sports

  • World Tennis League Season 3 action on Sony Sports from 19 December

    World Tennis League Season 3 action on Sony Sports from 19 December

    MUMBAI: Four days of fast-paced tennis starting today, 19 December, with some of the leading players globally battling it out in the World Tennis League (WTL) Season 3 for the title of champion team. That’s what tennis lovers are going to be glued to on the Sony Sports Network (SSN) till 22 December. 

    SSN has acquired the exclusive television and digital rights for the tournament for India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The year-end treat has Sania Mirza and Rob Koeing serving as commentators. 

    The WTL is a one of its kind mixed gender leagues which is being  held at the Etihad Arena, Yas Island, in Abu Dhabi with thrilling match ups between four teams namely Eagles, Falcons, Hawks and Kites. 
     

    Schedule for WTL

    What makes the tournament even more interesting is the presence of the players like Stefanos Tsitsipas, Andrey Rublev, Casper Ruud, Daniil Medvedev, Nick Kyrgios, Taylor Fritz, Hubert Hurkacz and Sumit Nagal from India in the Men’s. On the other hand, the women stars participating include the likes of Iga Swiatek, Barbora Krej?íková, Paula Badosa, Elena Rybakina, Aryna Sabalenka, Caroline Garcia, Jasmine Paolini, and Mirra Andreeva.

    During the tournament, the teams will play each other in a round-robin format. Each tie will consist of four sets: one men’s singles match, one women’s singles match, and two doubles sets, which may include men’s doubles, women’s doubles, or mixed doubles, as determined by the team that wins the coin toss.

    Following the round-robin phase, the top two teams will face off in the final on 22 December 2024.

    The squads are as follows:

    Eagles – Iga Swiatek, Barbora Krej?íková, Hubert Hurkacz, Casper Ruud
    Hawks – Aryna Sabalenka, Mirra Andreeva, Taylor Fritz, Sumit Nagal
    Falcons – Elena Rybakina, Caroline Garcia, Daniil Medvedev, Andrey Rublev
    Kites – Jasmine Paolini, Paula Badosa, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Nick Kyrgios

    The WTL can be watched live on Sony Sports Ten 1 SD & HD channels &  on Sony LIV

    Live performances by ageing evergreen Canadian rockstar Bryan Adams and Anastacia (19 December) and by Akon (21 December) are other standouts for the WTL What was not clear at the time of writing was whether the performances were going to be aired. So if you are a fan of any of these and the top tennis ranked players, head out and book your flight tickets as well as tickets for the arena. 

  • Smashers Sports acquires Delhi franchise of World Pickleball League

    Smashers Sports acquires Delhi franchise of World Pickleball League

    MUMBAI: In the leafy backyards of Bainbridge Island, Washington, a humble paddle, a wiffle ball, and an improvised net birthed a game that would one day cross oceans and cultures. Pickleball. Once a suburban pastime invented by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum for their children in 1965, has transformed into a global sensation—and now, it’s ready to smash its way into India’s booming sports arena.

    With the same spark of ingenuity that gave the world the number zero and yoga, India is poised to elevate pickleball from backyard origins to center stage.

    Smashers Sports, powered by Terra Invest and Ashok Amritraj’s Hyde Park Entertainment Group, claims the Delhi franchise of the World Pickleball League (WPBL). This alliance of global capital, sports innovation, and India’s growing appetite for niche sports promises to redefine the country’s athletic and entertainment horizons.

    Stay tuned, because the pickleball fever is about to hit India like never before!

    The WPBL, affiliated with the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA), features six competitive teams. With pickleball recognised as one of the world’s fastest-growing sports, its appeal is spreading rapidly among urban audiences and younger players in tier two and tier three cities in India.

    Former Wimbledon tennis player and renowned Hollywood producer with global revenues exceeding $2 billion, Amritraj remarked on the acquisition, “Having spent decades in sports and entertainment globally, I see tremendous potential for pickleball in India. The WPBL offers a unique opportunity to combine competitive sports with entertainment-driven narratives that can engage audiences worldwide. Smashers Sports’ vision for the Delhi franchise aligns perfectly with this mission.”

    Terra Invest partner Ankiti Bose highlighted the sector’s growth prospects, “The sports media and entertainment sector in India is entering a golden age. With rising disposable incomes, AI-driven engagement platforms, and increased time for leisure activities, this market is on the cusp of exponential growth. We believe that sports, coupled with technology and entertainment, will play a transformative role in defining the next decade of India’s growth story.”

    Globally, private equity investments are reshaping sports ownership, as seen in the NFL, NBA, and Major League Pickleball. This acquisition reflects the international momentum of private equity firms leveraging sports as high-value assets with commercial and media potential.

    With Terra Invest and Hyde Park Entertainment Group’s expertise, the Delhi Franchise is set to become a premier sporting platform in India, blending competitive sports with entertainment. The involvement of high-profile investors and celebrities in emerging sports underscores pickleball’s potential to transform into a cultural phenomenon.

    What started as a DIY game for kids is now a global sensation. Could your backyard brainchild be next?

  • FanCode launches FIFA+ Zone and FAST channel to delight Indian fans

    FanCode launches FIFA+ Zone and FAST channel to delight Indian fans

    MUMBAI: No more frantic googling or last-minute scrambles for the remote—FanCode is here to kick off your football dreams.

    Whether it’s the roar of the crowd, the magic of iconic FIFA goals, or behind-the-scenes stories of champions, India’s premier sports streaming platform is putting the world’s most beautiful game at your fingertips. With the launch of the FIFA+ Zone and a new FAST channel, FanCode promises to transform living rooms into stadiums, bringing fans exclusive interviews, jaw-dropping documentaries, and timeless match moments from FIFA tournaments, including the electrifying FIFA World Cups.

    It’s game time, and the only decision left for fans is which beer to crack open as their favorite team smashes victory home.

    With the football fanbase in India surpassing 305 million, this launch aims to bridge the gap between growing fandom and premium football content. FanCode’s 24/7 FIFA+ Zone will immerse fans in engaging non-live football programming, making it accessible for free on the FanCode app (iOS and Android).

    The FIFA+ Zone will showcase content tailored for Indian fans, including:

    . FIFA+ Originals: Exclusive documentaries, behind-the-scenes stories, and interviews featuring the biggest names in global football.

    . Archival Matches: Classic encounters from FIFA World Cups, significant tournaments, and top women’s matches.

    . New Content: Fresh programming will continue to roll out through 2025 and beyond.

    FanCode co-founder, Prasana Krishnan expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, “This collaboration with FIFA+ will give Indian fans access to best-in-class non-live football programming. The passion for the game has grown substantially in the last few years with more than 305 million football fans in the country, but the content served to them hasn’t kept pace with the fandom. With some of the top leagues and players already on FanCode, this addition will further strengthen our football offerings.”

    FIFA+ Zone will complement FanCode’s robust football lineup, which already features Real Madrid TV – the 24/7 channel of European champions Real Madrid – alongside key events such as the Carabao Cup, Copa del Rey, AFCON, and FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

    This partnership underscores FanCode’s commitment to delivering a world-class football experience, blending historic matches, exclusive storytelling, and contemporary content for fans across the country.

  • Sony Sports to go regional with Hockey India League telecast deal

    Sony Sports to go regional with Hockey India League telecast deal

    MUMBAI: The Hockey India League (HIL) has got an additional live telecast partner for the next three years  – the Sony Sports Network (SSN). The league has signed a contract with the broadcast network.  Mid-last week, DD had announced that it was coming on board for the whole tournament’s telecast. 

    What’s special about the SSN deal is that it will be airing the matches with Telugu and Tamil commentary as well as Hindi and English in a bid to broad base the appeal of the sport. The tournament can be viewed on Sony Sports Ten 1 (English), Sony Sports Ten 3 (Hindi), and Sony Sports Ten 4 (Tamil and Telugu) channels in both standard definition (SD) and high definition (HD). The league, featuring domestic and international players, is to take place in Ranchi and Rourkela for both  men and women and will be flagged off on 28 December. 

    Said Sony Pictures Networks India chief revenue officer & head sports business Rajesh Kaul : “Hockey has gained significant popularity in India with the Indian team’s success in consecutive Olympics contributing to the resurgence. At SSN, we have always been committed to serving Indian fans with a diverse sports portfolio. The inclusion of one of the world’s premier franchise-based hockey leagues will undoubtedly bring fans closer to the game. We see our partnership with it as a key step toward establishing ourselves as the home of hockey, just as we have done with other major sports in our portfolio.”

    Highlighted  HIL governing committee chairperson Dilip Tirkey: “Sony Sports’ expansive coverage across multiple channels and languages will ensure that fans from all corners of the country can enjoy the league. This season is poised to be bigger, better, bolder, and we are confident that Sony’s unmatched telecast capabilities will help take the excitement of Indian hockey to new heights.”

    Added HIL governing committee member Bhola Nath Singh: “Our focus has always been on promoting hockey to a wider audience, and this partnership with SSN allows us to do just that. With their multilingual telecast plan, we are making the sport accessible to a larger audience, bringing them closer to the game. We believe this season will set a new benchmark in terms of viewership and fan engagement.”

    (Picture courtesy Hockey India League)

  • Baseline Ventures to build annual six to eight teams Cava Nations Cup

    Baseline Ventures to build annual six to eight teams Cava Nations Cup

    MUMBAI: Tuhin Mishra’s Baseline Ventures has tossed another ball up in the air. The sports agency has signed up with the Central Asian Volleyball Association (Cava), the governing body for volleyball in central Asia, in a strategic partnership to revolutionise  and popularise volleyball in the region.

    Cava is the supporting Zonal Association of the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) and represents the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) and the AVC in central Asia and south Asia to promote and develop indoor, beach, grass and snow volleyball in the region. It is also affiliated to Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

    The idea of the partnership is to build an eminent annual property – the Cava  Nations Cup which will feature participation from six to eight teams  across the Cava region  and offer FIVB ranking points, marking a significant milestone for volleyball in the area.

    The Cava  Nations Cup is poised to become a flagship event, bringing together top teams from central Asia to compete at the highest level.

    Cava president Mohamed Latheef said: “Baseline Ventures has been the brains behind the the very popular Prime Volleyball League in India. We are excited to work on the Cava Nations Cup with Baseline as we witnessed India’s stand-out performance during the last Asian Games which was a direct result of the success of Prime Volleyball League. Coming together with Baseline allows us to bring our vision to life, creating more opportunities for players and elevating the region’s profile on the global volleyball stage.”

    Baseline Ventures co-founder & MD Tuhin Mishra: “The Cava Nations Cup promises to be a game-changer for volleyball in central Asia. This tournament will not only showcase the region’s talent but also provide players with a platform to compete for FIVB ranking points.”

    Surely, that should prove to be a smashing incentive for the game and the players. 

    (Picture courtesy Prime Volleyball League)

  • Hero MotorCorp rides away with Hockey India League title sponsorship.

    Hero MotorCorp rides away with Hockey India League title sponsorship.

    MUMBAI: Wish a lot many more sports had this kind of support. Strengthening its commitment to the growth and development of hockey, the world’s largest maker of bikes and scooters Hero MotoCorp  has signed on as the title sponsor of the Hockey India League (HIL) for the next three seasons, starting from 2024-25.  Specific sponsorship amounts were not disclosed, but guesstimate are that it is in the double digit crore territory.Coal India was the previous title sponsor.

    This  alliance between Hero MotoCorp and the HIL  aims to rejuvenate one of India’s most cherished sports, expanding its reach and fostering a vibrant platform for emerging talent.

    The tournament, set to begin on  28  December will feature eight men’s teams and, for the first time, four women’s teams. The introduction of the Women’s HIL  marks a historic milestone in Indian hockey, underscoring a significant step forward for the inclusion and empowerment of women in sports.

     Hero MotoCorp executive vice-president Sanjay Bhan said, “Hero MotoCorp is deeply committed to nurturing and supporting sports globally, with a special emphasis on India. Hockey holds a unique place in our hearts, reflecting our nation’s rich sporting heritage. The Hero Hockey India League is more than just a competition – it’s a celebration of our shared passion for the sport, an inspiration for future athletes, and a unifier for communities.”

    HIL  governing committee chairperson Dilip Tirkey  said:  “Hero MotoCorp has always been a pioneer in supporting Indian sports, and their association with the Hero Hockey India League will elevate the tournament’s stature. With their title sponsorship, we are confident that the Hero Hockey India League will reach greater heights, inspiring players and fans alike. Together, we aim to make this league a true celebration of hockey as IndiaKaGame.”

    HIL governing committee member Bhola Nath Singh added, “Hero MotoCorp’s partnership is a testament to the growing popularity of the HIL.Their support will not only enhance the league’s visibility but also strengthen the narrative of hockey as a unifying force in India.”

    The Hero HIL can be watched  through a wide array of platforms, including television, digital channels, and radio, ensuring that audiences remain connected to every thrilling match and moment. With Hero MotoCorp’s support, the league aims to nurture the sport, inspire future generations of players, and spotlight India’s hockey talent on the global stage.

    (Picture courtesy Hockey India League website)

  • Zee announces Agency Premier League T20 for media agencies to build connect with DP World ILT20

    Zee announces Agency Premier League T20 for media agencies to build connect with DP World ILT20

    MUMBAI: In a vibrant fusion of cricket and creativity, the inaugural Agency Premier League T20 is set to launch in Bengaluru, blending the excitement of the game with the star power of the media industry. The tournament will kick off on 16 December, featuring renowned Kannada actor Ramesh Aravind at the opening ceremony, promising a thrilling experience that unites media professionals in a celebration of sport and collaboration.

    Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (Zeel) the official broadcaster of the DP World International League T20, is engaging prominent media agencies through this unique initiative, which will also take place in Delhi on 18 December and culminate in Mumbai on 20 December. With Ramesh Aravind, known for his iconic Kannada talk show Weekend with Ramesh on Zee5, headlining the Bengaluru leg, this innovative trade marketing initiative aims to promote the third edition of ILT20 among media professionals on an engaging platform.

    The Bengaluru leg will see spirited participation from prominent agencies, including Group M fielding two teams and Dentsu, Havas Media, Initiative and Madison each competing with one team. Following this, the Delhi edition will feature teams from OMD, Havas, IPG, Group M, Publicis and Dentsu. The Mumbai event will host an equally competitive lineup with Wavemaker, Starcom, Madison World, DBB Mudra Max, Essence Mediacom and Mindshare Fulcrum.

    Zeel’s chief growth officer of digital & broadcast revenue Ashish Sehgal said, “The Agency Premier League T20 reflects Zee’s commitment to fostering meaningful engagement and pursuits with our trade partners, including the media. Cricket unites India, and this league brings the excitement of ILT20 closer to the media fraternity while celebrating the unifying spirit of the game. Through this tournament, our aim is to create an innovative and immersive experience that resonates with cricket fans across the globe.”

    The month-long third edition of DP World ILT20 will begin on 11 January 2025, with the finals slated to take place on Sunday, 9 February 2025. Cricket fans can watch this action-packed tournament on Zee’s most widely distributed and viewed 15 linear TV channels: &Pictures SD, &Pictures HD, Zee Cinema HD, Zee Anmol Cinema 2, Zee Action, Zee Biskope, Zee Zest SD, Zee Cinemalu HD, Zee Telugu HD, Zee Thirai, Zee Tamil HD, Zee Kannada HD, Zee Zest HD, &Flix SD and &Flix HD. It’s also free to view on one of India’s leading OTT platforms – Zee5. The syndicate broadcast partners around the world will be announced in the coming days.

    As per the press release mentioned earlier this year, Zeel reported that the league’s second season reached 221 million viewers and to capture a viewership of 230 million for the upcoming season, Zee will expand its reach by including south Indian channels, offering a month-long cricket carnival experience.

    The channel’s extensive distribution strategy ensured widespread accessibility in India and across the globe. With a notable 46 per cent share of female viewership and 55 per cent share of youth viewership, the league’s broad appeal in India underscores its status.

  • From gully to glory: ISPL season 2 auction hits almost Rs 6 Crore heights

    From gully to glory: ISPL season 2 auction hits almost Rs 6 Crore heights

    MUMBAI: Once the heartbeat of neighborhood streets and childhood dreams, gully cricket has shattered its humble origins to rise as a blockbuster spectacle. Remember the friendly squabbles over who bats first, whose ball to use, or even whose rules to follow? Fast forward, and that same spirit of street cricket now boasts celebrity-backed glamour, roaring stadium crowds, and jaw-dropping auctions reaching nearly Rs 6 crore.

    The Indian Street Premier League (ISPL) season 2 auction proved nothing short of electrifying. With six teams fiercely bidding for the best talents, over Rs 5.54 crore exchanged hands in a dramatic evening of high-stakes action. The world’s most relatable form of cricket now shares a stage once reserved for titans like the IPL, turning makeshift pitches into million-dollar dreams.

    Mark your calendars, as this thrilling saga unfolds on 26 January 2025, at Mumbai’s iconic Dadoji Kondadev Stadium, promising an epic showdown until 15 February. Street cricket is no longer a game; it’s a revolution.

    The auction saw 350 players, shortlisted from trials in 55 cities, go under the hammer, with 96 players securing spots across the six teams. Among the standout moments was Abhishek Kumar Dalhor becoming the most expensive buy at Rs 20.50 lakh, acquired by Majhi Mumbai, owned by Amitabh Bachchan. Another highlight was the selection of 15-year-old Sharik Yasir, the youngest player in the auction, who joined Srinagar Ke Veer, owned by Akshay Kumar, for Rs 3 lakh.

    ISPL, a T10 tennis-ball cricket tournament, debuted earlier this year and has quickly gained recognition for providing a professional platform for street cricket talent. This season introduced new rules, including the right-to-match (RTM) feature and icon player slots, allowing teams to retain fan favourites and bring in marquee players.

    Notable icon player acquisitions included:

    1   Abhishek Kumar Dalhor (Rs 20.50 lakh) – Majhi Mumbai

    2   Saroj Paramanik (Rs 16.25 lakh) – KVN Bangalore Strikers

    3   Krishna Satpute (Rs 8.50 lakh) – Falcon Risers Hyderabad

    4   Dilip Binjwa (Rs 6 lakh) – Srinagar Ke Veer

    The league’s inaugural season garnered significant fan interest, with ISPL players becoming household names. Sachin Tendulkar, a core committee member, praised the league’s efforts, “ISPL has created a competitive platform for talented players to showcase their skills. The enthusiasm and performances from season 1 were remarkable, and we are thrilled to expand to more cities this season.”

    League Commissioner, Suraj Samat announced plans for trials in 101 cities for ISPL’s third season, reflecting the league’s commitment to unearthing talent from every corner of the country.

    He added, “The introduction of the RTM rule and strong team squads ensure this season will be even more exciting for fans. ISPL’s growth is a testament to the love for cricket in India.”

    ISPL season 2 will air on Star Sports Network and stream on JioCinema, promising fans thrilling matches and unmatched entertainment.

  • Star Sports wins National Award for redefining inclusivity in broadcasting!

    Star Sports wins National Award for redefining inclusivity in broadcasting!

    MUMBAI: Why should feeling different ever mean being left out? In a world striving to embrace inclusivity, breaking biases and fostering equality isn’t just a moral obligation – it’s a celebration of humanity. Star Sports has shattered one of the most profound – the exclusion of differently-abled sports enthusiasts. In a groundbreaking leap towards inclusivity, India’s premier sports network has been recognised with the National Award for Institutions Engaged in Empowering Persons with Disabilities 2024. This honour, bestowed by the president of India, Droupadi Murmu, applauds a revolutionary initiative that has changed the game forever. With their sign language and descriptive commentary feed, Star Sports is not just broadcasting sports but building bridges, connecting Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, and Visually Impaired fans to the electrifying pulse of live sports like never before.

    Star Sports’ efforts to break communication barriers and expand access to live sports have been transformative. By addressing the needs of differently-abled fans, the network has set a benchmark in inclusive broadcasting, ensuring that no fan is left behind in the excitement of live sports.

    Expressing gratitude for the recognition, a Star Sports spokesperson said, “We are deeply honoured to receive this prestigious National Award. It reflects the dedication of our team to making sports accessible to all fans. Initiatives like the Sign Language and Descriptive Commentary Feed are integral to our mission of uniting sports lovers, regardless of their abilities. This award motivates us to continue innovating and ensuring inclusivity in sports broadcasting.”

    Star Sports plans to expand its commitment to inclusivity by exploring new ways to enhance the sports-viewing experience for all audiences, reaffirming its role as a leader in the broadcasting industry.
     

  • FanCode has acquired exclusive streaming rights of HWC 2024

    FanCode has acquired exclusive streaming rights of HWC 2024

    MUMBAI: Imagine catching the thrill of world-class golf, the pristine greens of Albany in the Bahamas glistening under the sun, and Tiger Woods teeing off—all without spending a single rupee. FanCode, the sports streaming platform known for its affordable Rs 19 passes, is taking a swing at something extraordinary this December. With exclusive streaming rights in hand, it’s offering Indian golf fans free access to the prestigious Hero World Challenge 2024, streaming live from 5-8 December.

    Hosted by Tiger Woods, the Hero World Challenge stands as a marquee event on the international golf calendar, supporting the TGR Foundation and drawing the world’s top golfing talent. The 2024 lineup includes global stars such as Scottie Scheffler, Jason Day, Ludvig Aberg, and Justin Thomas. Three Indian-origin golfers — Sahith Theegala, Akshay Bhatia, and Aaron Rai — will also feature, adding a special connection for Indian fans.

    The competition will see eight members of the victorious 2024 U.S. Presidents Cup team, including Scheffler, Patrick Cantlay, Sahith Theegala, and Wyndham Clark, battling it out against international stars like Jason Day, Tom Kim, and Sungjae Im.

    The partnership between Hero and the Tiger Woods Foundation, which began in 2014, will extend through 2030, making it one of the longest-running collaborations on the PGA Tour. This iconic event continues to uphold its reputation for delivering world-class golf and supporting a noble cause.

    “FanCode is committed to making global sports more accessible to Indian audiences,” a spokesperson from FanCode said. “Bringing premium events like the Hero World Challenge for free aligns with our mission to deliver the best sports content to fans.”

    Stream Details

    . Dates: 5-8 December 2024

    .  Platform: FanCode app and website

    .  Cost: Free