Revolutionizing Sports Training with AI: The MultiSenseBadminton Dataset
Sports training relies heavily on practice, but what if athletes could learn from the techniques of professionals? Thanks to AI-based personalized coaching assistants, this dream is becoming a reality. These assistants use advanced technology, like cameras and sensors, to track every move an athlete makes during training sessions. Researchers at the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), South Korea, along with collaborators from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA, have developed a groundbreaking tool for badminton training: the MultiSenseBadminton dataset. This dataset captures the movements and physiological responses of badminton players, aiming to enhance their techniques. WHAT IS MULTISENSEBADMINTON?Inspired by MIT’s ActionSense project, which tracked everyday tasks using wearable sensors, the MultiSenseBadminton dataset focuses on improving forehand clear and backhand drive strokes. The researchers collected extensive data from 25 players with varying skill levels, using sensors to monitor joint movements, muscle signals, foot pressure, and even shuttlecock positions. Each movement was carefully analyzed and labeled based on stroke type, player skill level, shuttlecock position, impact location, and sound upon impact. This meticulous labeling ensures the dataset’s quality, making it suitable for training AI models to evaluate stroke quality and provide feedback. WHAT DO EXPERTS THINK?According to Associate Professor SeungJun Kim, this dataset can revolutionize badminton training by creating personalized motion guides for players at different skill levels. By analyzing differences in motion and sensor data, AI-generated action trajectories can offer tailored feedback to enhance players’ techniques. The data collected can also be used to enhance training through methods like haptic vibration or electrical muscle stimulation, promoting better motion and refining swing techniques. Additionally, this dataset could fuel virtual reality games or training simulations, making sports training more accessible and affordable for all. In the long run, the researchers believe that the MultiSenseBadminton dataset could promote overall well-being by making sports training more accessible to a broader audience. With AI-driven coaching assistants and advanced datasets, the future of sports training looks promising, paving the way for healthier populations and improved athletic performance. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye.
Playoffs: RCB has a mere 6.25% Chance of winning IPL 2024
IPL Playoffs: The odds are stacked heavily against Royal Challengers Bengaluru going into the Eliminator against Rajasthan Royals on Wednesday. The match will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. RCB’s unbelievable run in the second half of the IPL has made the Red Army fans feel – “Ee Sala Cup Namde” (This year, the cup is ours). However, the fans need to keep their emotions in check. Technically and historically speaking, RCB’s chances of winning the IPL 2024 is a mere 6.25 percent. We will get to the mathematical percentages later, meanwhile, let’s look at how the RCB has fared in their eliminator match history. Overall, the Red Army has played five IPL eliminator games, and the results are as follows. Royal Challengers Bengaluru In IPL Eliminators SEASON DATE MATCH RESULT VENUE 2010 Apr 21, 2010 MI vs RCB MI won by 35 runs Navi Mumbai 2015 May 20, 2015 RR vs RCB RCB won by 71 runs Pune 2016 May 14, 2016 RCB vs GL RCB won by 144 runs Bengaluru 2020 Nov 06, 2020 RCB vs SRH SRH won by 6 wickets Abu Dhabi 2022 May 25, 2022 LSG vs RCB RCB won by 14 runs Kolkata In 2010, the Red Army squared off with Paltan in the semis, which is also considered as an eliminator. RCB has won three knockout matches and lost two, which is a pretty good record. The last time they were in an eliminator was against Lucknow Super Giants in Kolkata. RCB defeated LSG by 14 runs and made it to the qualifier 2, where they lost to Rajasthan Royals by 7 wickets. RCB needs to emulate Deccan Chargers’ feat in 2009 Now, we come to the 6.25 percent part, and the calculation. In the past 14 editions, no team has won the IPL title, finishing in the 4th spot. In 16 seasons, overall, the first and only team to win an IPL title after finishing in the 4th spot in the points table, at the end of the league stage was the Deccan Chargers. As it has happened only once in 16 completed seasons, thus the percentage calculation. (1/16 *100 = 6.25) Also Read: Where has Virat Kohli invested his money? Coincidentally, the RCB was at the receiving end of the IPL 2009 final in Johannesburg. The Chargers, under Adam Gilchrist, defeated the Anil Kumble-led Bengaluru side by six wickets to write a remarkable comeback in tournament history. The only difference is that in 2009, there was no playoff system, and the top four teams made it to the semis. Since 2011, the side finishing fourth has had to win an eliminator, then the second qualifier, and finally the final to win the IPL title. RCB has never won an IPL trophy, despite making it to the final thrice in 2009, 2011, and 2016. This time though, they are running high on confidence, winning six straight matches to book a spot in the playoffs. Now, it is time for them to take one step at a time and realize their long-standing dream of winning an IPL title. Even though the RCB has a mere 6.25 percent chance of winning the IPL trophy, someone like Virat Kohli will grab that opportunity with both hands. No team in IPL history has managed to achieve this unique feat for the past 14 years. RCB has a chance to not only rewrite history books but also to carve a legacy of its own. If Virat Kohli and company can achieve this impossible feat, it will be a season to remember for Red Army fans for the rest of their lives.
IPL 2024: Which franchise boasts the fittest cricketers? Check the full list here
Cricket has changed, over the last few years. Especially, the way it is being played now, thanks to the IPL. The game has become fast, with more focus on positive intent – be it with bat, ball, or in the field. One more aspect, where cricket has evolved is fitness. Slow fielders, poor runners between the wickets, and lethargic movers in the field – that’s a thing of the past now. The franchise is now on the lookout for fit players, raring to go, from ball one, and maintain similar energy till the end of the match. Also Read: IPL Financial Model – Explained Here’s a compilation of some of the fittest cricketers across the IPL from all the teams below. Decide who is the winner at the conclusion. Sunrisers Hyderabad The Sunrisers Hyderabad have been breathing fire in IPL 2024 with their top order scoring the bulk of runs. Apart from having the number one top order, they also have the number one fitness game. Their Captain, Pat Cummins himself is the biggest inspiration for their team with regards to fitness. Apart from Cummins, Travis Head is famous for his aggressive style and athletic ability. Head’s strong hits and fast running between the wickets require great core strength and stamina. His quick reactions in the field and amazing catches show how committed he is to staying fit. 2. Royal Challengers Bengaluru The trio of K.G.F (Kohli, Glenn, Faf) need to be the usual suspects when it comes to anything related to RCB. And the same is the case when we talk about fitness. Virat Kohli is the top and fittest cricketer in the world. This Indian right-handed batsman follows a strict diet and fitness routine to stay in shape for his matches. Virat also has a structured gym and exercise regimen to keep his body toned and active. Similarly, there is no secret when it comes to Faf Du Plessis’s and Glen Maxwell’s fitness. Both batters have developed a lean posture due to their control over fatty and oily diets and focus more on cardio training like running and high altitude training. To know more about High Altitude training: 3. Mumbai Indians Rohit Sharma may look bulky, however, he possesses a great level of fitness skills. Rohit Sharma maintains his fitness with a balanced diet and regular workouts, enhancing his performance on the field. Suryakumar Yadav is known for his agility and strength, thanks to his disciplined fitness routine and dedication to physical training. Tim David’s muscle power is nothing new to the fans. His bones and long legs make him strong, fit, and flexible on the field. 4. Chennai Super Kings M.S. Dhoni, renowned for his lightning-fast reflexes and exceptional wicket-keeping skills, has always emphasized fitness as a crucial part of his cricket career. His workout routine focuses on core strength, agility, and stamina, allowing him to perform consistently at the highest level. Ravindra Jadeja, known for his all-round abilities, maintains his peak fitness through a rigorous training regimen that includes cardio, strength training, and agility drills. His athleticism is evident in his quick running between the wickets, sharp fielding, and powerful hitting, making him one of the fittest cricketers in the world. 5. Kolkata Knight Riders KKR boasts some of the fittest players in their lineup. With the likes of Mitchell Starc, Shreyas Iyer, and Manish Pandey in the squad, KKR looks one fit team in IPL 2024. Not to forget, Manish Pandey, often considered a dark horse has left Virat Kohli behind in yo-yo tests a couple of times during the selections in the past. Shreyas Iyer has seen a massive improvement in his fitness in the last couple of years. His back spasms have reduced and he has been able to deliver throughout the season. Mitchell Starc gets his chiseled physique due to his daily cardio workouts and diet. The most expensive player in IPL history has been able to hit the timber quite a few times in IPL 2024. Fitness has become a key factor in the success of IPL franchises in 2024. Each of these franchises demonstrates superior fitness and contributes significantly to their competitive edge in the IPL.
Goran Ivanisevic Reveals Health Challenges While Working with Novak Djokovic
World number one tennis player Novak Djokovic surprised everyone by parting ways with Goran Ivanisevic. They had a very successful partnership, starting with Djokovic winning Wimbledon in 2019, the first tournament with Ivanisevic as his coach. “Goran and I decided to stop working together a few days ago. Our on court chemistry had its ups and downs, but our friendship was always rock solid,” the 24-time Grand Slam champion wrote on Instagram in March after talking to Ivanisevic in Miami. Djokovic’s words were accurate—their relationship during matches had its highs and lows, with Djokovic often expressing his frustrations toward the 2001 Wimbledon winner. Ivanisevic has now talked about the pressure he felt coaching the 24-time Grand Slam champion, admitting it led to some sleepless nights. “I always had good [sleeping] tablets,” he told Blick. “No, seriously: you have pressure every day in this industry. But I was completely okay with it. You get used to the circumstances.” With Ivanisevic being Croatian and Djokovic Serbian, the 52-year-old said their similar backgrounds helped. He continued: “It helped that we both came from the Balkans. Novak and I are similar. I was always prepared for his possible reactions.” Since Djokovic is such a great player, there was extra pressure on Ivanisevic. “Well, when you train Novak Djokovic, anything other than winning the title at any tournament is a failure. That’s a lot of pressure to deal with,” the former world No. 2 added. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye.
Business: How well do you know IPL’s Financial Model?
The entertainment quotient of the IPL is unmatched. Cricket fans are glued to the multi-billion dollar entertainment extravaganza for nearly two months every year. This isn’t just a cricket carnival, it is a multi-million-dollar business pot. What fuels this financial powerhouse? What type of business model does it operate on? IPL Revenues & Expenses Let’s delve deep into where the IPL receives the money, and where the expenses lie. This involves three important IPL stages: pre-season, during the season, and post-season analysis. Period Revenues Expenses Pre-Season Franchises: Sponsorship deals, merchandise sales BCCI: Broadcast rights, central sponsorship deals Franchises: Auction, Merchandise production, and team building BCCI: Broadcast rights negotiations, marketing & advertising campaigns, sponsorship deals Season BCCI: Broadcast rights fees shared with franchises Franchises: Ticket sales, gate-sharing agreements, in-stadium food & beverage concessions, merchandise sales, premium seating revenue Franchises: Operational costs, stadium management, match-day expenses (security, etc) BCCI: Broadcast Production cost, tournament infrastructure Post-Season Distribution of prize money and shared revenue to the franchises. Also Read: What’s the ticket price for India vs Pakistan match? Team ownership & expenses – a complete summary Team owners play a vital role, as they are the ones who take care of the players, coaches, and support staff. One complete season of the IPL involves massive budgets, that include travel, accommodation, practice sessions, and miscellaneous costs. Currently, the IPL operates on a franchise model. This means massive corporates come together to buy teams and take full ownership of different cities. There are 10 teams in the IPL at the moment, and their owners are some of the biggest names in the business world. Team Name Owners Home Ground Sponsors Chennai Super Kings Chennai Super Kings Cricket Limited M.A.Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai Kit: SEVEN Front Shirt: TVS Eurogrip Back Shirt: ETIHAD Airways Chest Branding: Gulf Oil Delhi Capitals GMR Group, JSW Group Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi Kit: Puma Front Shirt: Hero FinCorp Back Shirt: DP World Chest Branding: Greenpanel Gujarat Titans CVC Capital Partners Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad Kit: EM Front Shirt: Dream 11 Back Shirt: BKT Chest Branding: Capri Loans Kolkata Knight Riders Shahrukh Khan, Jay Mehta, Juhi Chawla, Red Chillies Entertainment Eden Gardens, Kolkata Front Shirt: Dream11 Back Shirt: BKT Chest Branding: Lux Cozi, PRAN-RFL Group Chorki Lucknow Super Giants RPSG Group Ekana Sports City, Lucknow Front Shirt: My11Circle Back Shirt: BKT Chest Branding: Greenply Mumbai Indians Reliance Industries Limited Wankhede Stadium, CCI-Brabourne Stadium Kit: Skechers Front Shirt: Slice Back Shirt: DHL, PRAN-RFL Group Chorki Chest Branding: IDFC First Bank Punjab Kings Preity Zinta, Ness Wadia, Karan Paul, Mohit Burman MYS Int’l Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, Mohali Front Shirt: Dream11 Back Shirt: BKT Chest Branding: Kent RO Rajasthan Royals Manoj Badale, Lachlan Murdoch Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur Kit: Alcis Front Shirt: Luminous Back Shirt: BKT Chest Branding: Neom Royal Challengers Bengaluru United Spirits M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru Kit: Puma Front Shirt: Qatar Airways Back Shirt: KEI Chest Branding: Delhivery Sunrisers Hyderabad Kalanithi Maran, Sun TV Network Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad Kit: Wrogn Front Shirt: Dream11 Back Shirt: BKT Chest Branding: Kuhl The franchises have different revenue streams, other than jersey sponsorships. In all, there are four legal ways in which a franchise can earn revenue through the IPL. If a franchise earns big, there are equal amounts of expenses lined up, right through the IPL. These expenses include: Broadcast Rights – BCCI’s golden goose The BCCI makes a major chunk of its revenues from broadcasting rights. The Board sells the broadcast / television rights and digital platforms rights to the bidders and makes a colossal amount, which is later shared between the BCCI and the ten franchises. Other than the rights, the BCCI also enters into a partnership agreement with the title sponsors and associate sponsors, for the IPL. These sponsorships provide maximum visibility to the sponsors right through the tournament. IPL 2024 Sponsors Partnership Sponsors Name Price (Rs) Title Sponsor TATA 2,500 Crore Associate Partners My11Circle, Angel One, Rupay, Ceat 1,485 Crore Official Broadcasters Disney Star Network 23,575 Crore Digital Streaming Partner Jio Cinema 22,758 Crore How do the sponsors make money? Once the brands get enrolled as sponsors, with the BCCI, they gain significant brand exposure through on-ground activities, branding during matches, and logo placements on team jerseys. Thanks to the IPL’s massive viewership, this allows the sponsors to reach their target audience without any fuss. Tata is the current title sponsor, having bagged the official rights from the BCCI, for a period of four years (2024-2028). Tata will pay the BCCI a sum of Rs 500 Crore annually. Since 2008, the IPL Title Sponsorship has changed hands five times. Do you remember all five of them? Sponsor expenses: Fees constitute a major part of sponsors’ expenses, as they are supposed to pay a premium amount to secure the rights at the IPL, or the franchise level. Other than this the marketing campaigns and creating engaging activations also require a lot of money to be invested, to maximize the impact of their deal with the BCCI. Merchandising – delivering fans what they want The IPL has a passionate fan base. They can go to any length and breadth of the nation to follow their favourite teams. This love also involved buying team jerseys, caps, bats, and other memorabilia, thus generating massive revenues for the BCCI. Ticket Sales: Inside-the-stadium experience Though cricket attendance took a hit during the Covid-19 impact in 2020, ticket sales have returned to normalcy for the past three seasons. The franchises earn revenues by selling the tickets to the fans during the IPL matches. By offering premium benefits, they can generate a higher revenue on the ticket. When it comes to the investment part, the franchises have to pump in money to cover the costs associated with printing tickets and managing the distribution process. Also, the expenses related to managing the stadium, and giving fans the experience they are looking for. Beyond the Boundary: The Digital Dollars The world has gone digital, and so has the IPL way
Explore Top 8 Sports Industry Trends & Innovations in 2024
Technology is changing how we play, watch, and enjoy sports. From helping athletes improve their performance to making fans feel closer to their favorite teams, new tools and gadgets are making a big difference. Let’s take a look at multiple exciting ways where technology is enhancing sports, including performance analytics, fan engagement, smart stadiums, and others. Also include eSports, immersive training, cybersecurity, advanced streaming, and sustainability. Performance AnalyticsIn the quest to enhance performance and improve decision-making, both coaches and athletes are eager to understand what actions lead to success during a game. Performance analytics tools play a vital role in this by measuring a wide range of data, highlighting areas that need improvement in sports strategy planning. Video and motion analytics, for instance, provide statistics about the ball’s position, player movement and involvement, action timing, and outcomes. Wearable technology, such as data-tracking wristbands, sensors embedded in equipment, and smart clothing, offers precise information about athletes’ actions, force, and accuracy. These tools can even predict injury risks, enabling evidence-based decisions before and during games. One notable example is Stupa Analytics from India, which offers real-time performance analysis for table tennis. Their AI-based app analyzes match recordings to provide detailed reports on game patterns, shot placement, and consistency. This helps coaches track performance over time and refine their development strategies. Similarly, Runeasi from Belgium has developed a smart belt for gait analysis, particularly useful for athletes with musculoskeletal conditions. The belt uses AI-based biomechanics to measure cumulative impact, peak impact rates, context, asymmetry, and dynamic stability. This real-time, personalized data enhances athlete performance and improves gait patterns. Fan EngagementFans are crucial to the sports ecosystem, contributing through their presence at events and by purchasing merchandise. Building strong relationships with fans is essential for maintaining loyalty. To boost fan engagement, clubs are leveraging various technologies such as blockchain for transparent communication, biometrics for identification, and AI-powered smart chatbots. Immersive technology, like live event holograms, allows fans to interact with their favorite sports stars from anywhere in the world. This technology is also becoming popular in eSports, where startups create platforms to build communities, share highlights, and listen to fan feedback. Liquiditeam from Germany supports sports clubs in building digital relationships with fans through their LT fan platform. This platform offers digital collectibles of favorite teams, enabling fans to engage through gamified interactions and earn tokens to participate in club activities. In Australia, Scorz enhances in-venue fan engagement with reusable items that light up in team colors when a score is made. They also developed a Bluetooth-enabled cup for at-home fans, which syncs with the Scorz app to celebrate scores, enhancing the viewing experience both in-stadium and at home. Smart StadiumsStadiums are the epicenter of the sports experience, but with changing fan preferences, many now prefer watching games on TV. To improve the in-stadium experience, sports tech startups are integrating technologies that provide additional features for attendees. AI-based crowd sentiment analysis tracks attendees’ emotions to gauge their level of enjoyment. Drones are being used for cleaning and delivering snacks to seats, while IoT technology improves connectivity and bandwidth, allowing for quick check-ins, parking spot location, and seamless app usage. Quintar from the US offers an AR data visualization platform that provides an immersive experience by visualizing player information, game stats, and ball trajectories. This allows fans to see the game from different angles, enhancing their in-stadium experience. Wicket, also from the US, provides crowd management software that uses computer vision for touchless ticketing and entry through facial authentication. This technology reduces queues and manages crowd flow, ensuring a smooth and secure fan experience. eSportseSports is rapidly growing, driven by advances in next-generation technologies. Increased smartphone access has lowered barriers, making free-to-play games like PUBG Mobile hugely popular. Technologies like computer vision provide detailed insights into gamers’ decisions and tactics, while AI helps bookmakers create accurate odds, benefiting both bettors and the industry. Dynasty from Singapore offers an eSports portal management platform that integrates gaming and media ecosystems. This platform provides a comprehensive solution for managing and monetizing gaming tournaments and leagues, while also offering AI-based coaching for player improvement. Spanish startup Kaikoo develops an all-in-one eSports coaching platform for League of Legends. The platform includes guides, specific tasks, and progress tracking to help gamers improve their gameplay. Immersive TrainingTo improve athlete performance and train for matches, coaches and players are adopting immersive training technologies. Virtual reality (VR) allows players to simulate realistic environments, enhancing coordination and providing performance data. Austrian startup VR Motion Learning offers a VR tennis training platform that uses motion learning technology to provide feedback on player movements. It compares current performance with previous exercises or professional standards to optimize movement and stroke play. StatusPRO from the US develops an extended reality (XR) football training platform tailored for the NFL. This platform uses real-time player data to simulate practice and game scenarios, helping players improve skills and tactics without physical impact. CybersecurityAs the sports industry grows, so does the threat of cyberattacks. Protecting fans’ and athletes’ data, as well as high-budget events, is crucial. Sports organizers are focusing on cybersecurity by implementing protective technologies and training employees. Blockchain is used for purchase protection and data security, while email defense systems prevent phishing and viruses. GamerSafer from the US provides identity management software for eSports player verification. It uses biometric technology to ensure age verification and prevent fake accounts, promoting a positive gaming experience. Austrian startup B.A.M Ticketing offers an NFT event ticketing solution that eliminates black markets and scalper bots. Their blockchain-based system ensures fair, transparent, and tamper-proof ticketing, benefiting both event organizers and attendees. Advanced Sports StreamingDigitalization is revolutionizing sports broadcasting, with a focus on providing personalized experiences and maintaining high streaming speeds. 3D technologies and 4K resolution enhance stream quality, while over-the-top (OTT) platforms allow fans to watch on multiple devices. Sizzle from the US improves live streams with AI-powered personalized highlights, working with platforms like Twitch and YouTube to enhance viewer experience. Swiss startup GlobalM optimizes event
Cricket + Q-Collar technology & Tom-Kohler Cadmore connection
Q-collar technology – ever heard of that before? If not, you will, in the coming days. Rajasthan Royals’ Tom-Kohler Cadmore kept the fans and spectators curious with his latest act, that was more than playing cricket and scoring runs. Though the right-handed batter failed to make a massive impact with the bat, the Tom-Kohler Cadmore gadget around his neck made all the headlines. When he came out to bat, he was wearing a Q-Collar, a device often used by NFL players and soccer players to protect against concussions. WHAT IS A Q-COLLAR DEVICE?A Q-Collar is a device designed to help protect the brain from injuries during physical activities. Shaped like a C, it fits snugly around the back of the neck. The collar works by gently pressing on the jugular veins, which increases blood volume in the skull. This added blood creates a cushion that helps stabilize the brain and reduce the risk of concussions during impacts. The device is lightweight and comfortable, allowing athletes to wear it without affecting their performance. Who uses Q-COLLAR DEVICE?The Q-Collar is commonly used by athletes in high-contact sports like football, soccer, and hockey. It has gained popularity because it offers a non-invasive way to reduce the risk of brain injuries. Studies and tests have shown that the Q-Collar can be effective in protecting the brain from the forces that cause concussions. As more athletes and teams recognize the importance of brain health, the use of the Q-Collar is becoming more widespread. TOM KOHLER-CADMORE USING Q-COLLAR TECHNOLOGY https://x.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1790753706972938672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1790753706972938672%7Ctwgr%5Ea3199af80d4425dda2cdc49e2bbd88de2770aaba%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.crictracker.com%2Fcricket-news%2Fipl-2024-tom-kohler-cadmore-uses-unique-device-to-reduce-concussion-impact%2F THE FIRST CRICKETER TO USE Q-COLLAR TECHNOLOGYKohler-Cadmore went on becoming the first cricketer to wear this head protection device. Hopefully, more cricketers will start using it in the future and take their safety more seriously. SHOULD Q-COLLAR BE USED MORE OFTEN IN CRICKET?The tragic demise of late. Phil Huges in 2014 brought a massive awareness in the cricketing fraternity as players became more aware of the safety equipment they can use to prevent injuries and tragedies both on and off the field. Similar incident had concussed Huges’ fellow Australian batter, Steven Smith back in the Ashes Series 2019 where he was hit right on the medulla (the connection between the brainstem and the spinal cord) and was forced to leave the field of play. With lethal pace bowlers in the form of Jofra Archer, Jaspirt Bumrah or even Mitchell Starc who like using the bouncers as their weapon, usage of Q-Collar technology soon is expected to be implemented by batters around the world. Additionally, with the bowlers allowed to bowl two bouncers per over in the IPL, use of Q-Collar technology should be a requirement in the game. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye.
IPL Title Sponsorship – Do you remember all five of them?
It was 17 years ago that the most storied league in franchise cricket came to existence. The Indian Premier League (IPL) since then, has grown from a little baby to an envy for all. With former Kolkata Knight Riders opener, Brendon McCullum belting a century against RCB in the very first game of the IPL, the tone was set. It was a statement to the world that IPL would develop itself not only as one of the biggest talent producing academies but also a platform that attracts brands looking to showcase their products and services to millions of viewers worldwide, and so it did. 17 years, 5 title sponsors.Since its first season, IPL has seen a remarkable increase in its title sponsorship value, reflecting the league’s growing popularity and commercial success. Apart from the on field battles, the tournament has also witnessed a couple of off the field battles when it came to securing the sponsorship rights of the league. So far only five brands could make it above the IPL logo as their official title sponsors. DLF, Pepsi, Vivo, Dream11, TATA. Here’s a list down the memory lane on who came in as the official title sponsor for the IPL and when. DLF: The Beginning (2008-2012)The first title sponsor of the IPL was Delhi Land and Finance (DLF). They agreed to sponsor the IPL for the first five years. DLF’s sponsorship deal was really huge in cricket history back then. They paid $100 million for four years from 2008 to 2011. Later, they extended the deal to 2012, making the total worth $150 million. This meant DLF gave around Rs 200 crore to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which is about Rs 40 crore for each season. This deal was a big deal because it set a trend for future sponsorships. Pepsi (2013-2015)As the IPL became more and more popular, many companies wanted to be its main sponsor. In 2013, Pepsi won the bid and agreed to sponsor the IPL for the next five years. They paid a total of Rs 396 crore for it. However, in 2015, there was a match-fixing scandal that caused trouble. Two teams, the Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals, got suspended because of it. Because of this, Pepsi decided to end its sponsorship early. They had already paid Rs 238.2 crore for the three seasons from 2013 to 2015. Vivo (2016-2019)After Pepsi backed out, Vivo, a Chinese smartphone maker, stepped in to finish the remaining two years of Pepsi’s contract. They agreed to pay Rs 100 crore initially. Seeing the IPL’s great money-making potential, Vivo then signed a huge five-year deal with the BCCI in 2017. It was worth Rs 2,199 crore, making each season worth about Rs 439.8 crore. But because of tensions between India and China, Vivo had to leave the agreement early, ending the partnership in 2019. Dream11’s Short Stint (2020)When Vivo left suddenly, the Indian fantasy sports platform Dream11 stepped in to sponsor the IPL for the 2020 season. They paid Rs 222 crore for just one season, which was half of what Vivo paid. This change showed how IPL sponsorships can change quickly, and how the league can attract different types of partners. Vivo Returns (2021)In 2021, Vivo returned to fulfill its earlier contract with the BCCI, becoming the title sponsor again and paying Rs 439.8 crore for the season. This showed Vivo’s dedication to the IPL and proved that the league’s sponsorship rights are still very appealing. Tata’s Historic Deal (2022-2028)In 2022, the Tata Group, a highly respected company in India, became the title sponsor for the IPL with the highest bid ever. Tata agreed to sponsor the IPL for two years, paying Rs 335 crore each season. After that, Tata and the BCCI made an even bigger deal for the IPL seasons from 2024 to 2028. The total value of this deal was Rs 2,500 crore, which means Rs 500 crore for each season. This deal is the most expensive title sponsorship in IPL history, showing how much the league has grown and how valuable it has become commercially. The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 has reached its twilight period. With the Kolkata Knight Riders and the Rajasthan Royals already qualified for the playoffs, it’s going to be a tough race between the Sunrisers Hyderabad, the Chennai Super Kings and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru to grab the remaining two spots for the playoffs. Mathematically, even the Delhi Capitals are running in the race with a slightest hope of making it into the top four. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye.
What’s the connection between DHFL and the IPL?
DHFL and Dheeraj Wadhwan—everyone is talking about them. The CBI arrested the former director of Deewan Housing Finance Limited in connection with a Rs 34,000-crore bank fraud case. This is the biggest banking loan fraud reported in the country so far. Long before the loan fraud was reported, DHFL enjoyed some glory days. That also included being associated with a top IPL franchise, as an associate partner. It was in 2012, when the DHFL first entered the IPL field, as an associate partner of Mumbai Indians. Also Read: Roger Federer – 12 Final Days Mumbai Indians & DHFL – the full story The association between the Mumbai Indians and the DHFL was a massive hit. Between 2012 and 2019, Mumbai Indians went on to lift the IPL crown four times. Their on-the-field success gave exceptional exposure to the sponsors – with the DHFL being one of them. DHFL first renewed its association with Mumbai Indians in 2013 for three years. It was reported that the finance house was paying Rs 6 Crore to the Mumbai Indians, for its logo to be displayed on the right upper chest slot. Even when the IPL spot-fixing scandal broke out in 2013, and several sponsors backed out, DHFL honored the commitment and renewed the contract again in 2015. The partnership lasted for another four seasons, with 2019 being the last one between the DHFL and the Mumbai Indians. Coincidentally, Mumbai went on to win the IPL title in 2019, beating Chennai Super Kings in an intense final by just one run in Hyderabad. What’s the fraud case against Wadhwans? Kapil and Dheeraj Wadhwan – DHFL directors are being charged with cheating a consortium of 17 banks for a mammoth Rs 34,615 Crore. They are also charged with money laundering as well. The accused have siphoned off and misappropriated a major portion of these funds by falsifying the books. They have also deliberately defaulted on repayment of legitimate dues to the consortium banks. In 2022, the CBI charge-sheeted the Wadhwans, who were taken into custody, in relation to the Yes Bank corruption probe and consequently released on bail. While at DHFL, Kapil Wadhawan held the positions of Chairman and Managing Director, while Dheeraj Wadhawan served as a non-executive director.
Who are the Highest Paid Athletes In the World? Where’s Virat Kohli on the List?
In sports, not everyone becomes a professional cricket or football star and makes a lot of money. But the ones who turn out to be big names do get an opportunity to make a lot of money. They earn big amounts of cash for playing games they love. These athletes are the highest-paid in the world. They get paid more than others because they are really good at what they do. Let’s take a look at who these highest paid athletes are and how much money they make. RANK NAME TEAM SPORT NATIONALITY SALARY ENDORSEMENTS TOTAL 1 Cristiano Ronaldo Al-Nassr Football Portugal $215M $60M $275M 2 Jon Rahm Spain $181M $22M $203M 3 Lionel Messi Inter Miami Football Argentina $65M $65M $130M 4 LeBron James Los Angeles Lakers Basketball U.S.A $45.7M $80M $125.7M 5 Kylian Mbappé Paris Saint-Germain Football France $100M $25M $125M 6 Neymar Al-Hilal Football Brazil $86M $35M $121M 7 Stephen Curry Golden State Warriors Basketball U.S.A $48.9M $50M $98.9M 8 Giannis Antetokounmpo Milwaukee Bucks Basketball Greece $43.4M $45M $88.4M 9 Kevin Durant Phoenix Suns Basketball U.S.A $44.9M $42M $86.9M 10 Patrick Mahomes Kansas City Chiefs Rugby U.S.A $59.3M $25M $84.3M Despite being the wealthiest athlete in India, Virat Kohli doesn’t make it to the top 100 list of highest-paid athletes worldwide. Even though he earns a lot of money through endorsements and cricket, the competition among athletes from other sports globally is tough. Factors like salaries, prize money, and endorsement deals vary between different sports and countries, which affects the rankings. So, while Kohli is big in India, on a global scale, there are many athletes who earn even more. In sports, not everyone achieves the status of a highly paid athlete. However, those who do reach the pinnacle of their respective sports enjoy immense financial success. These athletes command substantial earnings for their exceptional talents and skills, often earning staggering amounts from both their salaries and lucrative endorsement deals. While individuals like Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and LeBron James dominate the list of highest-paid athletes worldwide, it’s important to note that this list encompasses various sports and nationalities. Despite his status as the wealthiest athlete in India, Virat Kohli’s absence from the top 100 highest-paid athletes globally underscores the fierce competition and differing financial landscapes across sports and countries. Nonetheless, Kohli’s significant earnings through endorsements and cricket highlight his prominence within the Indian sports scene, showcasing the diverse avenues through which athletes can achieve financial success. Also Read : https://thesportzplanet.com/virat-kohli-business-investments/ The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye.