Mumbai: The Central Domestic Player Draft for the inaugural Hero Indian Super League (ISL) concluded at the Palladium Hotel in Mumbai on Wednesday.
Forty-two players, 15 of whom have played for the Indian national team at the senior level and 12 at the junior level, were up for grabs heading into day two of the draft.
In the biggest of the drafts, former India captain Climax Lawrence joined Atletico Kolkata, while his former national team midfield teammates Steven Dias and N.P. Pradeep were picked up by Delhi Dynamos and Team Bengaluru respectively.
The inaugural eight-team league, which models itself on the Indian Premier League cricket format, will run from September to November.
Each team will be allowed to sign eight foreign players, one of which can be a marquee signing, but as yet these slots are still to be confirmed.
Jefferson Slack, the senior vice-president of event organisers International Management Group (IMG) Global Football Development, said exciting times lie ahead for Indian football.
“It’s so fulfilling to see the realisation of the vision and hard work,” he said. “This is also a step to inspire young Indians not only to follow but also to play the sport, as this is a project for the development of Indian Football.”
Former India national team captain Bhaichung Bhutia said it was interesting to watch the teams take shape.
“Summarising the teams as they have been picked, it’s difficult for me to pick up a favourite,” he said. “It’s impressive to note that each club has gone for different strategies while selecting players.
“The entire process has been a great learning one for me. I look forward to seeing new talent emerging and maturing through Indian Super League while playing with other iconic players,” he added.
