Even as Lalit Modi is once again raising the prospect of a revolving IPL extravaganza, the Rajasthan Royals appear to have gained another level over the ambitions for the Twenty20 game.
Manoj Badale, co founder and chairman, and Shane Warne, captain and head coach of the Rajasthan Royals, co owned by Shilpa Shetty and Raj Kundra, announced their brand new venture, Royals 2020, aiming to create a brand of teams around the world.
On the list already is the England county team, Hampshire, that Warne had previously represented. Apparently the Cape Cobras of South Africa and Trinidad and Tobago from the West Indies are also on contract while Victoria Bushrangers are evaluating their options.
The official words of the Royals at Lord’s:
“The Royals 2020 mission is to grow the fan base; grow the commercial platform for all, provide high-class entertainment for the young and families in great grounds; provide opportunities for players to develop their talents and to entertain fans around the world through great events.
The company’s partner selection has been based on records and commitment to Twenty20 Cricket, commitment to player development, potential for a unique in-stadia experience and a cultural and commercial fit with the Royals ethos. There is also potential for knowledge-sharing, talent-sharing and participation in a central revenue pool.
For players, there will be opportunities to increase exposure and awareness within the IPL, and the Indian market more broadly. For younger players, there will clearly be opportunities to play in overseas markets and further develop their games. For our sponsors and partners we create a truly global, but local marketing platform and membership of the world’s first global sporting franchise.”
The Royals’ mission, “”Royals2020 will be a dynamic partnership of leading cricket clubs with the aim of creating the ‘World’s First Global Sporting Franchise’.”
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