As the IPL season nears its end, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has announced the schedule for the T20 Mumbai League (TML) from June 4 to 12, amidst the monsoon. The declaration has sparked interest among cricket enthusiasts and the city’s talented players eager to showcase their skills. TML’s franchise owners are excited too, though they may be wary of rain affecting the league which could deter sponsors.
Limited broadcast revenue
Broadcasting rights are a major contributor to the revenue pool of IPL and international leagues. However, the revenue pool of state association premier leagues faces significant challenges, primarily due to comparably lower broadcasting rights revenue, making it difficult to turn their leagues into profit-making ventures.
The current model of the TML poses financial challenges for franchises. The cost of player salaries, staff, and logistics can be substantial, with franchises investing around R5-7 crores per season. Recovering this investment is a struggle. To ensure this financial strain does not lead to malpractices, MCA must take steps to plug the financial crisis that franchises have been experiencing right from the beginning when the league was earlier called Mumbai Premier T20 League.
State leagues are crucial for both players and IPL franchises. Leagues like the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) have proven to be nurturing grounds for young talent, benefiting IPL franchises and state players equally. The TML could benefit from fresh ideas. For example, they could request the BCCI to permit two players from other state associations to join each franchise team. This will enhance competition, provide a platform for emerging players to rub shoulders with star cricketers from other states, make the league more attractive to cricket lovers nationwide and consequently create better sponsorship avenues for franchises.
To reduce expenses, MCA could follow TNPL’s example and waive off franchise fees. Additionally, eliminating the requirement to accommodate players at five-star hotels could help cut costs. The focus should be on supporting franchises that pay substantial amounts to players and support staff.
Rain risk remains
Playing in the monsoon season remains a challenge and the continuous use of the Duckworth-Lewis method might lead to more predictions than cricket itself. If a proper window, without the hindrance of rain is available, the TML has the potential to groom young talent. With the right attitude and structure, it can become a successful and sustainable tournament.
The next best step could be to have a TML for girls, providing opportunities for women cricketers in Mumbai.
Jagdish Achrekar was MCA’s Treasurer before the 2022 elections
The views expressed in this column are the individual’s and don’t represent those of the paper
