Sachin Tendulkar among cricket stars set to return for first International Masters League

September 30, 2024, Mumbai: When the International Masters League (IML) begins this year, a galaxy of cricketing greats will gather in India for one of the biggest T20 franchise events. Two of the biggest global cricket superstars, Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar, are the brains behind the six-team tournament.

The two all-time greats will work with SPORTFIVE, a well-known international sports marketing firm, and PMG Sports, the top sports management organisation in India, to establish a company in India to host the league.

The comeback of Indian icon Sachin Tendulkar is expected to rekindle the excitement of millions of fans who have been waiting impatiently for the Master Blaster to work his magic with the bat once more over the 22 yards.

India, Australia, South Africa, West Indies, England, and Sri Lanka are the six cricket-playing nations who will first send players to compete in the annual Twenty20 International Masters League (IML). The competition aims to revive memories and spark fresh conflicts by bringing some of the best players in the history of the game back to life.

The renowned Gavaskar has been named League Commissioner. The games are slated to take place in Raipur, Lucknow, and Mumbai.

In reference to the International Masters League, Sachin Tendulkar stated: “Cricket is becoming more and more popular worldwide, not just in India. T20 cricket has gained popularity over the past ten years and attracted new players. Fans of all ages now have a great desire to rewatch classic battles in more modern formats. At their core, athletes never give up and their spirit of competition longs to return to the pitch.

The International Masters League is intended to serve as a gathering place for enthusiastic cricket enthusiasts and fierce competitors. All of the competing players, I’m sure, will refocus and work hard to get ready. We all want to play the best cricket possible and aim to win when we represent our country.

The International Masters League Commissioner, Sunil Gavaskar, continued, saying, “The rise of T20 cricket presents a fantastic opportunity to rediscover the magic of the sport we love.” With the International Masters League, fans will have an even greater opportunity to see their idols perform LIVE, bringing them closer to the luminaries they have long adored.

This is not simply a cricket match; it’s a celebration of nostalgia where legendary moments of outstanding cricketing performance will resurface. Everyone is welcome to travel with us on this thrilling adventure as we make new memories together.

In highlighting the significance of this initiative, SPORTFIVE CEO Stefan Felsing stated: “This tournament presents a fantastic opportunity to enhance our footprint in cricket.” More cricket activities will soon be launched; this is just the beginning. We are ecstatic to be a part of this adventure, which will see legendary players return to the pitch and provide fans with a new avenue for interaction with their heroes.

The importance of this partnership was emphasised by SPORTFIVE’s President of APAC, Seamus O’Brien: “This is a turning point in our strategic growth of the SPORTFIVE Asia network, increasing our presence throughout the major commercial and athletic hubs of the continent. It’s critical to seize the chances presented by the Indian market with a major event and illustrious partners.

Also Read: Harsha Bhogle launches ‘India’s Top 25’ series and recalls Sachin Tendulkar’s memorable Chennai knock

The Indian Premier League (IML) is more than simply a competition; it’s a chance to celebrate the heritage of cricket’s best players and their bond with millions of fans in India and throughout the globe, forging new bonds and more unforgettable sporting experiences along the way.