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Tag: Capri Sports

  • Kabaddi gets a new tune as Sportz Interactive drops AI-powered anthems

    Kabaddi gets a new tune as Sportz Interactive drops AI-powered anthems

    MUMBAI: When kabaddi meets cadence and AI meets attitude, you know sport is getting a remix. Sportz Interactive (SI), the sports tech and fan engagement powerhouse, has rolled out three fresh team anthems for Pro Kabaddi League Season 12, each crafted with speed, style, and a splash of artificial intelligence.

    For the Bengal Warriorz, SI and Capri Sports unleashed Tashan Toofani, a swagger-heavy anthem designed for Gen Z. Beyond penning the lyrics, the team leaned on AI to stitch together the soundtrack, create futuristic player avatars and layer in visuals dripping with fashion, music, and sport, a cultural cocktail tailored for the next wave of kabaddi fans.

    If Bengal got bold, Gujarat got fast. The Giants’ rallying cry, Garjega Gujarat, was turned around in just five days, a record sprint that combined SI’s in-house hustle with AI-powered fan-generated animations. Proof, perhaps, that an anthem doesn’t need months to roar if tech is tuned right.

    Meanwhile, the UP Yoddhas went cinematic. Their anthem, produced with a lean crew but boosted by AI workflows, captured the team’s gritty, battle-ready persona without compromising on authenticity or polish. It showed how smart tools can strip away inefficiencies while keeping the heart of the story intact.

    “These three productions reflect the versatility of our teams and the immense potential of AI to transform how sports franchises connect with their fans,” said Sportz Interactive SVP for leagues, teams & federations Chintan Shah. “Whether it’s ultra-fast delivery, fresh visual styles, or smarter workflows, we’re proud to be pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in sports storytelling.”

    With Pro Kabaddi Season 12 set to storm the mats from 29 August 2025, fans of the Warriorz, Giants and Yoddhas won’t just cheer their heroes on the court, they’ll sing along to anthems built at the intersection of creativity, code and culture. Because in this league, it’s not just about points and tackles, but also about the soundtrack of sporting passion.

  • Warriorz bring storm and swagger with Tashan Toofani in PKL Season 12

    Warriorz bring storm and swagger with Tashan Toofani in PKL Season 12

    MUMBAI: Call it style with a storm surge Bengal Warriorz are charging into Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 with more than just tackles and raids. The founding franchise, which begins its campaign against Haryana Steelers on 31st August, has unveiled a new identity and a campaign that promises both tashan and toofan. Branded Tashan Toofani, the campaign fuses swagger off the mat with sheer force on it. Developed by Capri Sports and SI, it portrays the Warriorz as equal parts cool and combative, a team that treats kabaddi not just as sport but as cultural expression.

    The storm’s soundtrack? An official team anthem, an upbeat rap track peppered with kabaddi jargon, trend-driven lingo and bass-heavy swagger. More than a hype song, it’s designed as a rallying cry for the next-gen fanbase, capturing the essence of the Warriorz effortlessly stylish, yet battle-hardened.

    “We wanted something that mirrors the courage, energy and flair of this squad,” said Capri Sports director for Contact Sports Apurv Gupta. “Tashan Toofani is about fearlessness on the mat, but also about a bold lifestyle that speaks to the youth. These Warriorz aren’t just players, they’re redefining what it means to be a modern kabaddi icon.”

    The young squad, sharpened for Season 12, enters with a dual mission: to continue the Warriorz legacy as one of PKL’s founding forces, and to carve out new cultural relevance by blending grassroots grit with Gen-Z cool.

    With whistles set to blow, beats already thumping, and a storm brewing in Bengal blue, the Warriorz’ Tashan Toofani looks ready to rattle rivals and rally a generation.

  • UP Warriorz and Navya Naveli Nanda unite to combat online trolling in women’s cricket

    UP Warriorz and Navya Naveli Nanda unite to combat online trolling in women’s cricket

    Mumbai: In a groundbreaking collaboration aimed at addressing the negativity faced by women athletes on social media, the Women’s Premier League (WPL) cricket team, UP Warriorz, has partnered with women’s rights advocate Navya Naveli Nanda, to unveil #TrashTalkCleanUp. Created in collaboration with Interactive Avenues, UP Warriorz’s digital creative agency, the campaign features an inspiring 2-part video podcast and series of Instagram reels.

    The aim of ‘Trash Talk Clean Up’ is to bin the negativity of social media and create safe spaces on the internet for UP Warriorz’ players as well as female athletes at large. A recent study by Plan International found that social media abuse targets female athletes three times more than men. A study published by World Athletics also states that out of all the hate circulating about the Olympics, 87 per cent of it was targeted towards women.

    The problem is no less rampant for India’s women athletes. Former cricketer Mithila Raj, two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu, hockey player Vandana Kataria and even the Indian women’s cricket team have faced trolling repeatedly and voiced their opposition on social media. Against this backdrop, UP Warriorz is acting for change and turning online spaces of harassment and abuse into places of support for these achievers.

    The first edition of Trash Talk Cleanup Podcast showcases candid, heartwarming conversations between Navya and UP Warriorz cricketers Vrinda Dinesh, Gouher Sultana, and Poonam Khemnar. Strategically launched around the Women’s Premier League, the initiative addresses the issue of online trolling faced by women cricketers and encourages individuals to respond to trolls with special dustbin gifs, symbolizing the disposal of negative comments. While there’s a long way to go, the social media team of UP Warriorz has already activated these GIFs and dustbin emojis through comments and reactive social listening, resulting in a visible reduction in trolling from the start of the season on 24 February till date.

    Expressing her thoughts on the collaboration, Capri Sports director  Jinisha Sharma said, “This Women’s Day, we champion every sportswoman across the nation to rise above the noise, to focus on their true passion and excellence on the field.”

    Interactive Avenues senior creative director Eshwari Pandit added, “Women often bear the brunt of cyberbullying, ranging from comments on their appearance to criticism of their professional choices. This online negativity not only impacts the mental well-being of players, but also tarnishes the spirit of the game. Through #TrashTalkCleanUp, we aspire to shed light on this critical issue and advocate for respect and positivity towards women athletes.”

  • Bengal Warriors secure six partnerships ahead of historic tenth PKL Season

    Bengal Warriors secure six partnerships ahead of historic tenth PKL Season

    Mumbai: The much-awaited tenth season of the Pro Kabaddi League is almost upon us, and the Bengal Warriors, one of the founding teams in the competition are putting in the hard yards, and preparing with great gusto, as they aim to land the title.  

    The Bengal Warriors, who won the championship in 2019, will understandably be keen on yet another title, and while the players, the management and the fans would be delighted at that, it would also be a source of great joy for the team’s brand partners, who have got their exclusive spots on the uniform.  

    Coached by the legendary K. Baskaran, the Bengal Warriors, who recently released a new jersey, will continue to wear the sports gaming news-only website DafaNews’ logo as the front of the jersey partner. Meanwhile, on the back of the jersey, the Warriors will have the Kajaria Ceramics logo.

    On the right arm, the Maninder Singh-led team will sport the Royal Green logo and on the left sleeve, it will sport – the League 11 logo. One of India’s leading news organisations, Zee News, have acquired the rights for their crest to be on the shorts. Last but not least Big FM logo will be on the nape of the jersey.

    “At Kajaria Ceramics, we are aligned towards to helping the Indian sporting ecosystem, and the Bengal Warriors have continuously shown an aptitude towards the upliftment of indigenous sports. The Warriors always put in their very best at every step and leave it all out there, which is something that is inspiring of sorts for us,” said Kajaria Ceramics Ltd JMD Rishi Kajaria.

    Zee Media chief executive officer Abhay Ojha expressed “We are thrilled to announce our collaboration with Bengal Warriors Kabaddi, a partnership that aligns seamlessly with Zee News’ commitment to showcasing excellence. This association not only strengthens our dedication to promoting diverse sports but also enhances our brand visibility. We believe it’s a winning combination that will contribute significantly to our business success.”

    “We are excited about this association with Bengal Warriors, one of the most formidable teams in the Pro Kabaddi League. Royal Green as a brand that embodies a perfect blend of success and quality finds synergy in Kolkata’s Pro Kabaddi League team Bengal Warriors, who are the perfect blend of strength, tenacity, agility and endurance. The Royal Green brand franchise is dedicated to support and encourage the spirit in which this team plays such an exciting exhilarating sport. Looking forward to an adrenaline-packed Kabaddi season,” said ADS Group chief executive officer Virat Maan.

    “The tenth season of the Pro Kabaddi League is truly an iconic and landmark one, and the Bengal Warriors family is extremely proud to have been part of such a journey right from the get-go. We are excited to partner with – DafaNews, Kajaria Ceramics, Royal Green, Zee News, League 11 and Big FM as our key brand partners. We are confident that this association will deliver great value to each of our partner brands,” said Capri Sports senior vice-president contact sports Apurv Gupta.

    The tenth season of PKL kicks off with a bang in Ahmedabad, with the Bengal Warriors facing Bengaluru Bulls on 4 December at the TransStadia.  

  • U.P. Warriorz and global visionaries craft transformative women’s cricket docuseries

    U.P. Warriorz and global visionaries craft transformative women’s cricket docuseries

    Mumbai: Following the overwhelming success of the inaugural Women’s Premier League (WPL) season earlier this year, Capri Sports-owned U.P. Warriorz, is poised to bring forth the narrative of women’s cricket with a novel docuseries that showcases the squad in an up-close and real manner, highlighting the magical moments, triumphs of the season, formidable challenges, breakthroughs, and inspiring journeys from the heart of UP and realities of women’s sports from the heartland of India and internationally.

    In an era where women’s sports is on the rise, the U.P. Warriorz franchise seeks to lead the charge in breaking gender barriers, not just in cricket but across the entire spectrum of sports.

    This docuseries, co-produced by ART&M and Victory Sports Media, will be a cultural milestone that stands to inspire sportswomen and women in general across all spheres in their ongoing journeys of striving toward social and economic change. Capri Sports envisions an extensive and diverse viewership, encompassing cricket enthusiasts, sports aficionados, aspiring young female cricketers, and anyone eager to delve into the compelling narrative of women in sports.

    Award-winning filmmaker Arlene Nelson, ASC DGA,  director and executive producer of the series, is a consummate storyteller instrumental in building and showcasing compelling narratives. Represented by United Talent Agency (UTA), she will be directing the U.P. Warriorz docuseries, leveraging her ability to explore the deepest corners of the human psyche, conveying the full power and passion of the world we live in, thus enhancing the impact of this cinematic venture.

    “In the current zeitgeist, a global groundswell is propelling female protagonists to the forefront. The docuseries embraces this momentum and allows me to weave a rich narrative where resilient women athletes emerge as trailblazers. I’m honored to be entrusted with the telling of this universal story that I believe is destined to captivate audiences worldwide,” said Arlene Nelson.

    ART&M  co-founder and producer/showrunner Arnab Chakraborty, expressed the company’s commitment to impactful storytelling, emphasizing the docuseries’ role in taking cricket to a larger global audience and inspiring young girls around the world to take up sports.

    Victory Sports Media CEO Jai Khanna, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of sharing the U.P. Warriorz story globally, celebrating achievements, shattering glass ceilings, and inspiring future generations.

    With the Women’s Premier League (WPL) currently valued at $150 million and the Capri Sports-owned U.P. Warriorz franchise contributing significantly to this valuation, the docuseries serves not only as a testament to the prowess of women in sports but also as a strategic investment in the burgeoning landscape of women’s cricket.

    Scheduled to be shot from November 2023 to April 2024, the docuseries aims to capture the entirety of the team’s journey, from the intense preparation phase to the heart of the tournament. The timing ensures an immersive experience for viewers, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the evolution and dedication of the U.P. Warriorz.

    Captain Alyssa Healy, expressing her enthusiasm, stated, “I believe this docuseries marks a revolutionary moment for women’s sports, offering a fresh perspective that could reshape public perception of women’s cricket.” Jinisha Sharma, U.P Warriorz team owner & director – Capri Sports, concluded, “Our docuseries isn’t just capturing the heart of cricket; it’s amplifying the voices of women who are catalysts for change. U.P. Warriorz is proud to showcase not just their athletic prowess but their ability to impact society and business positively—a milestone that reverberates far beyond the field. 

  • Capri global launches Capri Sports

    Capri global launches Capri Sports

    Mumbai: In what is a bold leap into the future of Indian sports, Capri global proudly introduces Capri Sports, a transformative venture that transcends boundaries and champions the ethos of accessibility, equality, and sustained growth within the dynamic realm of sports.

    Capri global, a stalwart advocate for inclusivity, has elevated its commitment to shaping a sporting ecosystem that thrives on the principles of innovation and empowerment. The launch of Capri Sports marks a pivotal moment in the company’s journey, symbolising a resolute shift towards providing equitable opportunities for athletes and sports enthusiasts across India. Furthermore, through its core values of trust, ingenuity, collaboration and inclusion, Capri Sports is aiming to become the biggest game changers in the sporting ecosystem, such that the immense potential in the system can be unlocked.  

    The foundation of Capri Sports was laid with strategic investments in the Bengal Warriors franchise of the Pro Kabaddi League, followed by the creation of the Rajasthan Warriors in the Ultimate Kho Kho league, the UP Warriors in the Women’s Premier League, and the international venture with the Sharjah Warriors in the ILT20 in the UAE. Together, these entities build the platform for Capri Sports, which is united by a common Warriors identity and mentality that epitomises collective strength, resilience, and an unwavering spirit. Emphasising the warrior spirit across the teams is the newly launched identity and logo, which also helps strengthen the connect with local fans.  

    “Capri Sports embodies the warrior spirit-where effort is relentless, respecting every opponent, finding strength in unity, facing challenges head-on, and inspiring generations with unwavering courage. Our Warrior spirit will be the driving force, championing indigenous sports deeply rooted in Indian culture and advocating for women’s participation in sports. Through our venture, we aim to provide essential resources, open doors, and empower Indian athletes and sports to thrive,” said Capri Sports director Jinisha Sharma.  

    Beyond the traditional realms of sports, Capri Sports is poised to delve into unique areas, including exploring the impact of climate change on sports. Additionally, the company is set to conduct regular benchmarking studies and intelligence reports, contributing to the industry’s sustainable and systematic growth in India.

    Capri Sports believes in the potential of sports to shape character, instill discipline, and cultivate leadership skills from a young age. Through Beyond the Scorecard, Capri Sports is set to launch targeted programs that go beyond the conventional metrics of success, focusing on the holistic development of the youth. Beyond the Scorecard’s initiative will include comprehensive sports programs, mentorship opportunities, and infrastructure development, creating an ecosystem where young athletes can thrive.  

    By engaging with sports at the grassroots, Capri Sports aspires to create a legacy of community engagement, empowerment, and inclusivity. The launch of Capri Sports and the Beyond the Scorecard initiative heralds a new era where sports isn’t just a game; it’s a journey of growth, a community-building force, and a pathway to unlock the full potential of every aspiring athlete, ensuring that no talent goes unnoticed or untapped.  

  • Jinisha Sharma announced as director of Capri Sports

    Jinisha Sharma announced as director of Capri Sports

    Mumbai: While the Indian sports fraternity gears up for what is expected to be a riveting season, Capri Global is taking significant steps, making clear their intentions about setting the agenda in the Indian sports narrative. Sticking firmly with the theme, Capri Global proudly unveiled Jinisha Sharma as the director of Capri Sports, entrusting her with the leadership of all sporting initiatives, including both present endeavours and future investments.

    Under the Capri Sports umbrella, there are currently four teams, namely, the Bengal Warriors in the PKL (Pro Kabaddi League), the Rajasthan Warriors in Ultimate Kho-Kho, while in cricket they have the Sharjah Warriors in the ILT20 in UAE, and the UP Warriorz in the WPL (Women’s Premier League) in India. Capri Sports’ most recent achievements have been finishing third in the WPL (Women’s Premier League) and assembling a strong squad at the recently concluded Pro Kabaddi League Auctions.

    Before she entered into elite sports, Jinisha served as the principal of ESG & impact at Capri Global, where she prioritised sustainable development with a strong focus on gender equality. As a Trustee with Capri Foundation, she has worked closely with organizations and initiatives advocating action on the climate crisis, and safeguarding marginalised communities, further underscoring her commitment to a sustainable and equitable future.

    With a personal passion for sustainable innovation and responsible investment, Jinisha has also founded the WorthWhile Future Foundation. This pioneering initiative is dedicated to amplifying awareness about the finance industry’s essential role in building a sustainable world and mobilizing all segments of society, including individuals, businesses, government, and institutions, to play an active part in this transformative journey.

    Jinisha, a lifelong sports enthusiast, played a wide range of sports growing up but cricket held a special place in her life during the formative years and went on to spearhead the initiation of girls’ cricket at her boarding school. In every facet of her journey, Jinisha has been a staunch advocate for gender equality and is committed to actively fostering an environment where female athletes have equal opportunities, resources, and recognition, ensuring that women’s contributions to sports are celebrated on par with their male counterparts.

    “Sport has always been very close to the hearts of the Capri family, and keeping with that, we want to ensure we make a long-lasting impact in that sense. With Jinisha stepping in and picking up the baton, we are confident that Capri Sports will soar under her able leadership,” said Capri Global managing director Rajesh Sharma.  

    “At Capri Sports, we’re here to leave an enduring mark in the world of sports. Win or lose, our aim is to be remembered as fierce competitors. As we step into the forthcoming sporting season, our focus is to not only preserve the Warrior spirit but to elevate it. Our commitment transcends the boundaries of the playing field. We are driven to continually enrich the Indian sports ecosystem, elevating experiences for our fans, all while safeguarding the environment that plays a vital role in our growth. It’s our way of celebrating the harmony between the beauty of nature and the spirit of sports,” Capri Sports director Jinisha Sharma.