Is India becoming a sports leagues’ nation? With the many sports leagues coming to India the days of one sport dominating the era are over. In early 90’s it was the magic of hockey which ruled here and in late 90’s it was cricket. But the 21st century saw the rise and rise of many other sports and their fan followings. From the Indian Premier League (Cricket), Pro Kabaddi League, Premier Fustal, Hockey India League, Indian Super League (Football), Pro Wrestling League, Indian Premier Tennis League to Premier Badminton League, the sports era has grown.
Companies, Brands and Industrialists are investing at large to make money out of these sports leagues but at the same time sports stars are born from leagues. With these many sports leagues the boundaries have broken and we are seeing many international players on the Indian grounds. The tournament features teams and players from across the world. A player is partner at one league and rival at another, these fixtures have helped to evolve the level of fitness for Indian players as well.
Earlier it was difficult for Indian players to get international exposure but coming of these sports league have helped Indian players get the required exposure at the starter level. The ranking of Indian players at international level has also gone up where they are facing same players in different format. Sports league have helped Indian players in many ways helping them develop strategies to be the best and beat the best.
The mother of all premier leagues is Indian Premier League, the professional T20 cricket league started in 2007. With eight teams in the IPL, it has grown like big fat Indian wedding. Next experiment with Kabaddi, went well when it completed its successful 4th season resulting in Kabaddi World Cup at India for the first time. Other sports like Hockey, Football, Badminton and Wrestling is not far behind and their leagues are gaining popularity as well.
With millions dollar club the sports league has grown bigger and fatter. There are fresh and experienced players, national and international icons, sports mega stars, different formats and rules, breathtaking moments, sports rivalry turning into off field friendship, players discussing strategies, emotions on and off the ground. There is so much to talk about these premier leagues that have changed the scenario of Indian games.
Mental strategies have become the game changer in matches where underdogs are beating the world champions. Coaches are now integral part of life sharing sweat and ice-creams with players. The playground has become a fire ball where everyone is burning every inch of their blood to make it to big stages. There is a change in the wind and parents are taking their young guns to watch the matches thinking them to be future international players.