After Vivo’s exit as title sponsors from the upcoming edition of IPL, the Indian cricket board has received expression of interest from at least five companies to step in for the UAE edition, from September 19 to November 8.
It is learnt Tata group, Reliance Jio, Patanjali, and edu tech platforms Byjus and Unacademy have met Friday’s deadline for submitting Expression Of Interest (EOI). It could not be independently confirmed but leading fantasy gaming platform, Dream 11, could also be in the running. A Tata spokesperson confirmed “Tata group have expressed interest in IPL title rights”.
Industry experts say it is highly unlikely all those who have shown interest will submit bids on August 18, when the sponsors will be announced. “Tata group is a serious player. It may want to make the most of this rare opportunity when IPL is scheduled in a festive season and sponsorship is available just for a year, and at a discount,” said a source close to the development.
With the prevailing anti-China sentiment that led to Vivo stepping aside this season, an Indian company may be a perfect fit for BCCI. A clause in the EOI invitation also indicates BCCI is addressing wider issues.
“BCCI shall not be obliged to award the rights to the third party which indicates willingness to pay the highest fees in the course of discussions/negotiations with BCCI after submitting an EOI. BCCI’s decision in this regard will also depend on a number of other relevant factors, including but not limited to, the manner in which the third party intends to exploit the rights and the potential impact of the same on brand IPL.”
