Kerala Premier League shows domestic cricket the way: Over the wicket

The Kerala Premier League (KPL) that concluded yesterday is undoubtedly the best tournament ever staged in the history of UAE's domestic cricket. Not only did it give away the highest prize money ever in domestic cricket here, the event produced some top-class cricket involving some of the best players from the UAE and abroad.

This tournament can be showcased as an example of how much the game can gain through dedicated organisers with a sheer love for cricket. The manner in which they staged every match, providing the best of facilities, delighted not only the players but also for the fans who turned up in large numbers at the International Cricket Council Global Cricket Academy Oval grounds. Every match created a festival atmosphere.

The participating teams too exhibited how much team management can contribute towards producing their best if given an excellent platform. Players from Pakistan, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and India lifted the standard of the tournament. Many who watched the event went on to comment why no cricket council or the Emirates Cricket Board had ever considered staging such a high quality tournament before.

Cricket is not a mere sport today, but also a business where huge profits can be generated, provided the organisers are able to generate faith among sponsors that the event will be run professionally. Many tournaments in the UAE have failed to attract sponsors mainly because of the profit-seeking attitude of the organisers.

This tournament may have generated profits, but the organisers also ensured they pumped in funds to provide the best facilities for the teams, honoured the sponsors at functions prior to the final, and respected players' performances with excellent prize money.

Reputation

On the other hand, even if this tournament was not profitable in the first edition, the organisers will have gained immense reputation and can surely get more backing in the coming years.

This can be looked upon as a case study for all cricketing bodies on how to invest in the game and reap success in the long run.

Another highlight of this tournament is the value gained by involving different communities for the popularity of the game. Without doubt, Keralites form a huge percentage of the expatriates and involving them for success can reap huge benefits.

Recently, the Sindhi business community has also formed a league of their own, and one should not be surprised if they too go on to stage a similar tournament here. Tapping at the right doors and involving different communities and nationalities is a move in the right direction. And KPL has shown the way.