Zee Group on Tuesday announced the formation of new cricket series, which will be called the Indian Cricket League.
Announcing the formation of the league in New Delhi, Zee Group Chairman Subhash Chandra said, "It is not in conflict with the BCCI but is complementary to it." ICL would have prize money of USD 1 million.
According to reports, the ICL would have six teams or clubs in its initial year. Within 3 years the number of teams would be increased to 16. Each team in the league would have 4 international players. The league, an annual feature, is expected to take-off around October this year.
"We feel that despite cricket being a passion, a religion in this country and despite it having great commercial players, BCCI has only 6 A-grade players signed up. Therefore, there is need for some united effort to create a talent pool. And this will be done by a three pronged strategy –discovery, diligence and display," he said.
Zee plans to set up cricket academies equipped with highest level of facilities across the country. Talent scouts will be appointed in all 35 states to hunt for talented players to participate in the Indian Cricket League.
The group will also lay emphasis on ensuring players' fitness and to achieve that a complete record of their diet-plan and game statistics will be maintained. Sports medicines will be introduced to combat illness and health problems.
{{/usCountry}}The group will also lay emphasis on ensuring players' fitness and to achieve that a complete record of their diet-plan and game statistics will be maintained. Sports medicines will be introduced to combat illness and health problems.
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