The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has officially announced the eagerly awaited Bengal Pro T20 League. Scheduled to commence immediately after the IPL in early June 2024, this inaugural edition promises excitement and thrills for cricket enthusiasts across Bengal. According to sources close to the matter, Delhi-based EV charger and solar products manufacturer Servotech Power Systems is currently engaged in discussions with the Cricket Association of Bengal regarding the acquisition of one of the franchise teams in the Bengal Pro T20 League. Servotech Power Systems has emerged as a key player in the EV charger and solar sectors, creating a strong EV charging network with government organizations and PSUs and making its mark as a provider of green energy solutions, showcasing a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability. Recognizing the wealth of talent in India, promoting cricket fervor and quality of sportsmanship, Servotech Power Systems views this strategic move as an opportunity to contribute to the development of indigenous talent while also aligning with its corporate ethos of fostering innovation and community engagement, overall developing healthy sporting culture and energizing young talent.
The BPL provides a platform for 264 top cricketers from Bengal to showcase their talent. Each team will have a squad of 17 players for the men’s team and 16 players for the women’s team, all hailing from Bengal, including the coaching staff. The teams are named after cities and districts of West Bengal, played in a league and knockout format, the tournament will consist of 31 matches each for both men and women. Men’s matches will take place at the historic Eden Gardens, while women’s matches will be held at the Jadavpur University. To celebrate Bengal’s fervor for cricket, CAB has decided to offer free entry to spectators for all matches throughout the season.
In a press conference held at Eden Gardens, Snehasish Ganguly, the president of CAB, revealed the fundamental aspects of the Bengal Pro T20 tournament. The competition is slated to span 21 days, featuring eight teams each in the men’s and women’s categories. Ganguly emphasized that all eight teams will operate under franchise ownership, with specific franchises set to be unveiled at a later date. Additionally, he assured that players will receive compensation in accordance with the salary cap, with the board bearing no financial burden for the league’s operations.