TNPL generates interest from bidders

The Tamil Nadu Premier League, slated to be played later this year, has attracted about 15 prospective bidders so far, including Lycamobile, Chettinad Group, Take Solutions and entrepreneur Varun Manian.

Published : May 06, 2016 23:57 IST

Industrialist Varun Manian is among the prominent prospective bidders for the Tamil Nadu Premier League.

The Tamil Nadu Premier League has attracted about 15 prospective bidders so far, an informed source said to Sportstar here on Friday. Among those who have purchased the tender applications for franchises so far are Lycamobile, Chettinad Group, Take Solutions and entrepreneur Varun Manian.

"We are expecting another 10 prospective bidders to buy the forms. A lot of interest has been shown so far. To have such a response in only four days shows the potential of the tournament," the source said.

That Lycamobile, which provides low cost sim cards and extended talk times to customers in over 19 countries, is in the fray reflects the international appeal of a Twenty20 competition that is likely to be followed by Tamils in different parts of the world. The tender forms will be available till May 25. Rs. 1.25 crore, per season, is the reserve price for a franchise.

Lot of interest

The source said to this magazine, "We are expecting another 10 bidders. Some movie producers have also been talking to us. They have been showing a lot of interest."

As far as the media rights are concerned, the source said Sun TV and Star Networks have been talking to the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA). "Both are big and popular enterprises. They want to clarify a few points before buying the forms."

Rs. Seven crore per season is the base price for the media rights. The source said, "A couple of websites have also shown an inclination to bid. Live streaming is very popular these days. They could also 'sub-licence' the television broadcast of the matches."

The competition is bound to heat up in the days ahead this scorching May.