In an interaction with the BBC, the actor, the entrepreneur and the philanthrope, Abhishek Bachchan shares his reflections on the European T20 Premier League (and PL), that he is a co -owner. The tournament, sanctioned by the International Cricket Council (ICC), is expected to be launched in 2026. Bachchan is also thinking about the evolution of IPL, its passion for sports films, etc.
Here are some extracts from the interview-
On the social impact of cricket, IPL and the evolution of Indian players:
“In India, there is practically no one among our billions of people who do not like cricket. Field, everyone is equal – your talent is talking.
On IPL Breaking Dominance of Mumbai and promoting diversity:
“Before the IPL, a large part of the national team came from Mumbai, who had the strongest cricket association. Yes, the players also came from other regions, but the domination was clear. Post-IPL, the landscape has changed. Now we have Ranchi players, like Ms. Dhoni, and Dehi has produced external talents. In this country.
On the European T20 Premier League (and PLP) and the global cricket extension:
“When the European League T20 was born, I saw a market ready for a professional T20 League. I really think we can make a difference here, and that is why I chose it like my foray into the right cricket. The ETPL is played in three very unique and emblematic countries – Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands. Seems to be the right time.
Developing more, he added: “We are engaging in the world class gameplay which is tied with the best leagues. We aim to attract the best names in the world. This is cricket as you have never seen it. We also have the mandate to support the female game.
On the aspirations of the sporting film and a permanent passion for sport:
“Sports films are my favorite genre because they celebrate the pride of the human mind. They allow you to live the triumphs and the setbacks that reflect real life. I would love to act or realize one day. I fell in love with this. He studied and deeply appreciated the value of sport. This is why I have always been inclined to explore and invest in sport. »»
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100% agree! My cousins friend became umpire in IPL and even his life changed. The whole cricket industry benefited not just players.
IPL introduced in 2008 and since then cricketers salaries have increased by over 500%. Players from countries like Afghanistan, Bangladesh, West Indies etc now earning millions. The tournament created ecosystem where talent gets rewarded irrespective of nationality or background. Its changed cricket economics fundamentally.
Changed lives or made cricket into entertainment circus? Remember when cricket was actual sport and not bollywood drama with cheerleaders??
Bollywood actors should stick to acting honestly. Why everyones expert on everything these days?
Abhishek is absolutley right! IPL has given so many players from smaller countries chance to shine and earn good money. Before IPL many talented players were struggling finansially but now they can support their familys properly.
Yeah because what we really needed was another rich celebrity telling us about ‘changed lives’ while sitting in their mansion. So relatable! Maybe next he can explain poverty to us too?
Easy for him to say when he’s already born rich. What does he know about actual struggles?
But has it really changed lives or just made rich people more rich? Most money still goes to top players while domestic cricketers still struggling. IPL is overhyped in my opinion and creates false hope.
Abhishek Bachchan giving career advice is like me giving tips on becoming Bollywood star 😂 Both equally qualified!
Not just players – coaches, physios, analysts everyone benefiting. IPL created whole industry around cricket. My friend works as social media manager for IPL team and earning more than software engineer salary. Its crazy how big its become!
Changed lives? More like destroyed traditional cricket values. Now everyone just wants to hit sixes and make money. What about test cricket? What about playing for country pride??
He’s not wrong tho. IPL contracts now bigger than many international cricket boards annual budgets. Young player from Nepal or Zimbabwe can earn in one season what would take 10 years in domestic cricket. The exposure and training facilities also world class.
IPL definitely game changer no doubt about it. Even players who never play match still earn decent money as reserves. Plus the brand endorsements that come after!! Complete life transformation.
Oh wow, thank you Abhishek for this groundbreaking observation! Next he’ll tell us that water is wet and sky is blue. What insight! 👏