‘Buying WPL team makes perfect business sense’

Divyanshu Singh, Chief Operating Officer, JSW Sports, said the investment made by the franchise, jointly owned by GMR Group and JSW Group, is a recognition of the growth potential of women’s cricket.

“When we had the opportunity to buy a franchise, to a great extent, we could see that our women players were doing well at the international level, but it was an important business decision as well as investing in the team. ” Singh said, “Given our experience in the IPL and its economics, investing in this franchise makes a lot of sense for us. I think there is a very strong sentiment in women’s cricket right now as well.”

The franchise hopes that owning a WPL team will expand its connect with the fans even after just 3-4 months around the IPL.

“This will enable us to be active throughout the year. This is a challenge that all IPL teams have been wanting to solve for some time now.”

From a business point of view, Delhi Capitals have signed the sponsorship value 15 crores, closing almost all the spots on the team jersey. “We have tied up with multinational companies in food, consumer durable brands, consumer care segments, women’s apparel, saree brands and a fantasy gaming company,” Singh said.

With many sports leagues looking to shun or withdraw sponsorship from ed-tech startups, the Delhi franchise has also stayed away from them. “It is only startups or brands looking to gain a certain amount of traction in their development cycle that are now advertising eagerly,” he added.

In January, Reliance Industries-owned Viacom18 acquired the media rights for WPL. 951 crore for five years. Broadcaster is going to pay per match price 7.09 crore during 2023-27. There is also a lot of money riding on the teams.

In its team auction, which was held last month, there is a record The companies had paid Rs 4,670 crore to get five franchises for the league. Other team owners include Adani Group, Reliance Industries, Diageo India and Indian NBFC company Capri Global.