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Tag: Delhi Capitals

  • Fan-tastic four as Dhoni hype and debutant delight rule IPL 2025 pulse

    Fan-tastic four as Dhoni hype and debutant delight rule IPL 2025 pulse

    MUMBAI: Turns out the biggest impact player of IPL 2025 isn’t even an “impact player”, it’s Dhoni. A new report titled The IPL Pulse by 23 Watts Insights Studio has bowled over cricket buffs with fan-fuelled findings from over 5,000 respondents across 10 cities. From emerging icons to unexpected frontrunners, the survey captures the shifting allegiances, breakout stars, and strategic evolution of this year’s league proving once again that in India, cricket isn’t just watched, it’s felt.

    At 42, MS Dhoni may not be scoring big with the bat, but his grip on the nation’s heart remains unshaken. A whopping 73 per cent fans say he shouldn’t retire just yet, with 35.13 per cent calling him the “soul of CSK” and 37.77 per cent admitting he’s not in peak form, but still brings immense value. Only 27 per cent feel it’s time for Thala to trade the gloves for the dugout.

    While legends still shine, Gen Z has crowned its new prince. Rajasthan Royals’ teen dynamo Vaibhav Suryavanshi has emerged as the most impressive debutant with 31.4 per cent votes. Following close are Mumbai Indians’ Ashwani Kumar (21 per cent) and South African import Ryan Rickelton (15.8 per cent), whose flair with the bat has turned heads across formats.

    When it comes to bowling nightmares, Jasprit Bumrah (32.4 per cent) reigns supreme, followed by CSK’s crafty spinner Noor Ahmad (28.4 per cent). Fans, though, are clearly on the pace bandwagon 65.3 per cent believe fast bowlers are tougher to face than spinners this season.

    It’s the year of the underdog. According to the report, 65 per cent of fans are hoping for a first-time IPL winner. Royal Challengers Bangalore leads the fairytale charge with 44 per cent of the vote, ahead of Delhi Capitals (12 per cent), Punjab Kings (7 per cent) and Lucknow Super Giants (2 per cent). Mumbai Indians (13 per cent) and CSK (12 per cent) remain in the hunt, but fan hopes seem to favour fresh silverware.

    Love it or overhype it, the “Impact Player” rule has divided the pitch but not the people. An overwhelming 78 per cent agree it’s added a strategic edge to the game, while 20 per cent say it’s tough on true-blue all-rounders.

    Key takeaways from The IPL Pulse:

    . Thala for life: Only 1 in 4 fans want Dhoni to retire.

    . Debut delight: Suryavanshi and Kumar lead the rookie chart.

    .  Bowling heat: Bumrah is still the batter’s worst nightmare.

    .  Dark horse energy: RCB tops wishlist for a new IPL champion.

    .  Rule reimagined: “Impact player” earns mass approval.

    With 55 matches down and plenty more fireworks to come, The IPL Pulse proves one thing beyond doubt, the love for cricket is as layered and unpredictable as the tournament itself. And in this game, it’s not just the players making an impact, it’s the fans who write the script.

  • IPL 2025 to begin with Kolkata-Bengaluru clash

    IPL 2025 to begin with Kolkata-Bengaluru clash

    MUMBAI: The Board of Control for Cricket in India has announced the schedule for the Tata Indian Premier League 2025, which will run from 22 March to 25 May.

    The 74-match tournament will be played across 13 venues, featuring defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the opening fixture at Eden Gardens.

    The season includes 12 double-headers, with afternoon matches starting at 15:30 IST and evening games at 19:30 IST. The first double-header on 23 March will see Sunrisers Hyderabad face Rajasthan Royals, followed by a clash between five-time champions Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians.

    Three teams will split their home games across two venues: Delhi Capitals between Visakhapatnam and New Delhi, Rajasthan Royals between Guwahati and Jaipur, and Punjab Kings between New Chandigarh and Dharamsala.

    The playoffs will be held in Hyderabad and Kolkata, with the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium hosting Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator on 20 and 21 May respectively. Eden Gardens will stage Qualifier 2 on 23 May, followed by the final on 25 May.

    The detailed schedule of the Tata IPL 2025 can be accessed by clicking HERE.

    (PICTURE COURTESY BCCI)

  • Delhi Capitals gets new marketing head

    Delhi Capitals gets new marketing head

    MUMBAI: He’s taken a trip from Lucknow to Delhi. Atishay Agarwal has moved on from Lucknow Super Giants as head of digital to Delhi Capitals as head of marketing. Agarwal has 16 years of work experience – from being an editor to being an analyst and anchor and a digital and social media marketer.

    According to him, the transition is a both  a victory and a breakthrough for him.. “.Over the last decade and more, professionals in content and digital marketing have often been seen as “digital-only” resources rather than integral marketing leaders,” he revealed in a post on linkedin.

    “Historically, marketing leadership roles have been dominated by specialists in offline marketing, while digital-first professionals like myself have questioned: “????’? ??? ???? ?? ?????? ?????? ????????” And for very long, I didn’t have any answer whatsoever. It often felt like this is all I could do for the rest of my career!

    This opportunity with Delhi Capitals represents a shift – one that I’m incredibly grateful for. It’s a recognition that digital expertise is not different or just a subset of marketing, but a cornerstone of modern marketing. Joining the franchise gives me the platform to learn, grow, and maximise my potential alongside an exceptional team.”
     

  • Fixderma appoints Preetam Jena as chief marketing officer

    Fixderma appoints Preetam Jena as chief marketing officer

    Mumbai: Fixderma has announced the appointment of Preetam Jena as its chief marketing officer and the head of ecommerce. Preetam took charge in this year kicking off major marketing associations with IPL’s Delhi Capitals and SplitsvillaX5.

    With 15 years of rich experience across ecommerce, digital marketing, and martech, Preetam has held leadership roles in both India and Southeast Asia. His data-driven approach and deep understanding of the ecommerce landscape have consistently translated into strong brand growth and increased customer engagement.

    At Fixderma, Preetam leads the entire marketing function, reporting directly to co-founder and CEO Shaily Mehrotra.

    “We’re excited to finally make this official,” said Mehrotra. “Preetam’s creativity and marketing expertise have already made a mark. His ability to craft compelling brand narratives and drive impactful campaigns will help elevate Fixderma to new heights in the skincare industry.”

    On his appointment, Preetam added, “Joining Fixderma has been an exciting journey from day one. I look forward to working with the team to create strategies that not only grow the brand but also resonate deeply with our consumers. We’re just getting started.”

  • GMR Global set to acquire UK-based Hampshire Sport

    GMR Global set to acquire UK-based Hampshire Sport

    MUMBAI: This is one cross-border planned acquisition – and that too relating to the most important sport in India: cricket. GMR Global Pte Ltd (GGPL) has signed and exchanged definitive agreements with Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings Ltd (HS&LHL), owner of the Utilita Bowl site and Hampshire Cricket, marking the start of a significant strategic partnership.

    The agreement outlines the phased acquisition of HS&LHL’s entire issued share capital by GGPL, and an initial reduction of the former’s debt, setting the stage for long-term growth and financial sustainability.

    As part of the agreement, GGPL will initially acquire a majority stake in HSL&HL, with the completed acquisition of 100 per cent ownership expected within the next 24 months. This transaction represents GGPL’s broader vision of investing in global sports assets through its overseas platform under the GMR group.

    GGPL is part of the GMR group, a multi-diversified Indian conglomerate founded in 1978, headquartered in New Delhi, India, with a global presence. GMR group operates across various sectors, including infrastructure, airports, power, and sports, and has contributed towards corporate social responsibility through initiatives in rural development, education, health, and skill development.

    This acquisition is designed to strengthen HS&LHL’s financial position, including Hampshire Cricket, and will include a material injection of capital to reduce the leveraging of the group. 

    GGPL has committed to furthering the development of Hampshire’s cricket teams and pathways, as well as enhancing the multi-sports and leisure facilities at the Utilita Bowl, including the stadium, hotel, and golf course. The company has emphasised the importance of respecting the traditions and culture of the game in England and Wales.

    The principal terms and conditions of this agreement were formally agreed upon by the parties a year ago, with the enterprise value set at a fair market valuation. This valuation included all existing assets as well as providing incentives for HS&LHL shareholders by way of additional consideration for possible future assets.

    Under the new ownership structure, Hampshire’s existing leadership team will remain in place. Rod Bransgrove will continue as group chairman until at least 30 September 2026, and David Mann will retain his role as group CEO. Together, they will work with GGPL to develop short, medium, and long-term strategies for the consistent growth of the club and its operations.

    Both organisations view this acquisition as a landmark partnership, one that will drive the expansion of HS&LHL’s sports infrastructure and community engagement. The collaboration promises to bolster the relationship between India and the UK, while also enhancing opportunities for growth within Hampshire’s cricket community and beyond.

    In particular, the agreement provides an opportunity to execute the masterplan for the Utilita Bowl site development, leveraging GMR’s global expertise and manpower. The goal is to foster the growth of both brands while maintaining financial stability and a shared belief in mutual success.

    The GMR group, a leading global infrastructure company, has significantly impacted the sports industry. Established in 2008, the sports business of GMR launched the Delhi Daredevils, the first IPL franchise from India’s capital. Currently,  it holds a 50 per cent stake in the Delhi Capitals (IPL and WPL), the Dubai Capitals (ILT20) and the Pretoria Capitals (SA20). The sports division has expanded its portfolio to include franchises in the Pro Kabaddi League and Ultimate Kho Kho League, promoting indigenous sports in India. Additionally, the sports division of GMR has invested in the Seattle Orcas team in the US Major League Cricket.

  • Greenpanel launches its new TVC

    Greenpanel launches its new TVC

    Mumbai: Greenpanel has announced the launch of its new TVC, featuring Delhi Capitals’ commendable players ‒ Rishabh Pant, David Warner, and Anrich Nortje. The commercial launch is a part of the brand’s association with the IPL franchise as its principal sponsor. It is a strategic marketing move aimed at increasing brand visibility and amplifying marketing initiatives while leveraging IPL sponsorship.

    Crafted by (L&K Saatchi & Saatchi), this television commercial adopts a whimsical and light-hearted tone, offering viewers a peek into the entertaining chaos behind the scenes of an ad shoot. From navigating unexpected challenges to witnessing moments of camaraderie among the cast and crew, the commercial captures the essence of the filmmaking process. It humorously portrays the efforts of the crew in guiding the players out of their comfort zones to deliver authentic performances. The TVC culminates with a clever analogy drawn by the players, likening their newfound acting prowess to the water-resistant qualities of Greenpanel’s HDWR MDF boards, cleverly weaving in the brand’s messaging. (the tagline/messaging: MDF Ka Doosra Naam)

    The integrated marketing plan for the commercial launch includes a combination of ATL, BTL, and digital initiatives. A high-frequency campaign has been curated to promote the commercial which is live on prominent television channels and OTT platforms and will run throughout the IPL season. Aligned with the ongoing elections, the brand has secured impactful and prime advertising spots on renowned TV channels for both polling and election days. In the digital space, Greenpanel has launched paid campaigns on social media and developed digital films featuring the players. It is also promoting the partnership and TVC launch through social media marketing. Additionally, the brand has a strong on-ground presence via POSM and stadium and merchandise branding in Delhi Capitals’ home matches.

    Greenpanel VP, marketing Arvind Joshi said, “This time around, we’ve opted for a fresh and innovative approach by conceptualizing the commercial in a behind-the-scenes (BTS) format. We hope this will be a fresh kind of viewing experience and will break the clutter. Our latest TVC showcases our superior quality product offering and talks about our water resistant HDWR boards and reinforces Greenpanel’s leadership position.”

    Director Shayak Roy added “It was the first and the best 1 hour of shooting of my life. Kudos to the team at Greenpanel for buying into such a fun idea which probably many brands at their level wouldn’t have dared to take up. Cheers to everyone involved, when all the parties are aligned it’s always a six.”

    L&K Saatchi & Saatchi CCO Rohit Malkani: “After the hilarious and hugely popular Greenpanel IPL film last year, the pressure was back on to do another winner. We had Greenpanel toss us a product (Greenpanel Water resistant HDWR) that started off an explosion of fun ideas. But finally, we honed in on a film-in-film technique that uses Delhi Capital players to do what they’re best at, having fun!”

  • JioCinema unveils anticipated ad-free subscription plan teaser

    JioCinema unveils anticipated ad-free subscription plan teaser

    Mumbai: JioCinema is currently offering free streaming of the Indian Premier League 2024, albeit accompanied by ads for viewers. However, the platform has hinted at a forthcoming subscription plan that could eliminate these interruptions during content consumption.

    During the IPL match where Sunrisers Hyderabad triumphed over Delhi Capitals on April 20, an advertisement was aired, signaling the impending introduction of this new subscription plan. JioCinema took to its social media platform, X (formerly known as Twitter), on 21 April, to share a teaser video alongside the caption, “Change is constant, but your plan doesn’t have to be. A new plan. Coming 25th April.”

     

     

    This suggests that users can anticipate a refreshed offering from JioCinema, potentially offering an ad-free viewing experience, starting 25 April.

  • PUMA India launches campaign with Delhi Capitals squad

    PUMA India launches campaign with Delhi Capitals squad

    Mumbai: Amidst the thrilling action of the ongoing country’s action-packed cricket league, sports brand PUMA India has released an entertaining campaign with partner Delhi Capitals’ star players – Rishabh Pant, Ishant Sharma and Yash Dhull – to engage with the team’s strong fanbase.

    PUMA’s campaign film for Delhi Capitals – called Delhi, Save the fight for the game – encourages fans to bring their aggressive spirit to the game with #DelhiSaveTheFight. Delhi’s characteristic aggression is often viewed critically but as a brand, PUMA believes that the capital’s shared passion will positively uplift the game.

    Commenting on the occasion, cricketer Yash Dhull said, “This cricket season is pure sports entertainment and PUMA has a unique ability to engage with fans. PUMA’s films made for Delhi Capitals this year do a hilarious take on the city’s innate nature to be headstrong. I am from Delhi and well-versed with our love for aggression. So, teaming up with Rishabh Pant and Ishant Sharma, and shooting for this film with routine Delhi scenarios was lot of fun and laughter. Having said that, the film’s message is strong, and saving and bringing this aggression to the game is the right spirit.”

    Commenting on the campaign, PUMA India head of marketing Shreya Sachdev said, “To celebrate our partnership with Delhi Capitals, we wanted to pay homage to the never-back-down spirit of the city. We are confident that this campaign will strike a chord with the team’s fanbase, as we continue to strengthen our commitment towards spreading the excitement of cricket culture in the country.”

    PUMA is the official kit partner of Delhi Capitals and has signed a multi-year deal with the team’s parent companies JSW and GMR, furthering its footprint in the cricketing landscape. As a kit partner, PUMA’s logo is present on the leading arm of the jersey of both the men’s and women’s teams of Delhi Capitals. Inspired by the pulse of the country’s capital, the jersey incorporates the route map of the Delhi Metro Rail – the iconic representation of the city’s enterprising spirit. The players’ kit comprises athleisure, training wear, accessories and travel gear.

    PUMA’s association with Royal Challengers Bengaluru has proven to be a big success in the league.

    PUMA has been actively contributing to the rise of sports culture in the country by associating with 250-plus athletes across cricket, boxing, football, and para sports. The brand boasts a star-studded lineup of brand ambassadors featuring batting icon Virat Kohli, champion sprinter Usain Bolt, football stars Neymar Jr and Sunil Chhetri, celebrated boxer MC Mary Kom, and cricketers Harmanpreet Kaur and Mohammed Shami.

  • Greenpanel renews association with Delhi Capitals as principal sponsor

    Greenpanel renews association with Delhi Capitals as principal sponsor

    Mumbai: Greenpanel has announced kickstarting the second edition of its association with the Indian Premier League’s franchise Delhi Capitals as its principal sponsor. As a part of this partnership, it will have branding on the Delhi Capitals team’s jerseys. With this strategic move, it intends to garner greater visibility, amplify its brand promotion initiatives, and solidify its reputation further in the market.

    This is going to be the second year of association between Greenpanel and Delhi Capitals. Greenpanel aims to build up on last year’s momentum to reach a wider audience base through the IPL’s massive viewership and foster strong connections with its potential customers.

    Greenpanel will be promoting this partnership through a marketing mix of ATL, BTL, and digital initiatives, including TV, on-ground visibility, social media, and performance marketing. It will be launching a new TV campaign soon featuring Delhi Capitals players to further strengthen the brand positioning of Greenpanel- MDF ka doosra naam. The brand will have a strong on-ground presence in the home matches via stadium branding and stalls with exciting games providing a chance to the fans to win exclusive Delhi Capitals merchandise. Additionally, in the digital space, Greenpanel will organize various contests for cricket fans to win the team’s merchandise, post content co-created with the Delhi Capitals team, and launch IPL-specific social media campaigns to further garner visibility and engagement.

    Greenpanel MD and CEO Shobhan Mittal said “We are excited as we kick off the second leg of our association with IPL’s franchise Delhi Capitals as their Principal Sponsor. Last year, when we initiated this alliance, we witnessed massive consumer outreach, and our marketing initiatives received a positive response. We are hopeful that this year the collaboration will be instrumental in further strengthening communication around the brand’s core positioning – MDF ka doosra naam.”  

    He further added, “The partnership reflects Greenpanel’s unwavering commitment to providing high-performance products to its customers. We consider this association as an opportunity to support the beloved sport of India, connect with fans and sports enthusiasts alike, and convert them into potential Greenpanel customers.”

    Delhi Capitals interim CEO Sukhvinder Singh said,” As the Delhi Capitals embark on another exciting season, we are thrilled to continue our partnership with Greenpanel as our principal sponsor. Their unwavering support reflects not only their commitment to the sport but also their dedication to providing top-notch products to customers nationwide. We look forward to another successful season together, representing the spirit of cricket and excellence.”

    Greenpanel is an Indian MDF company and stands strong for its country. The brand is highly passionate about sports and has huge respect for the country’s sportspersons.

  • CMO Sunil Gupta scores CEO role at Delhi Capitals

    CMO Sunil Gupta scores CEO role at Delhi Capitals

    Mumbai: Sunil Gupta, the former chief marketing officer of adidas India, has recently assumed the position of chief executive officer at Delhi Capitals. After a tenure of over seven years with adidas India, Gupta decided to embark on this new professional journey. His association with adidas began in 2016 when he took on the role of business unit head for adidas running.

    In a LinkedIn post, Sunil Gupta announced his transition, expressing appreciation for the chance to indulge in his love for cricket daily in his new role. Notably, before his time at adidas, Gupta gained valuable experience through his roles at Coca-Cola India, Marico, and GSK.