Professional Golf Tour of India Welcomes Rajasthan Franchise for 72 The League
The Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) has made a significant announcement regarding the expansion of its premier tournament, 72 The League. On Monday, the organization revealed the introduction of a new franchise based in Rajasthan, marking an exciting development for Indian professional golf.
Joint Ownership by Industry Leaders
The newly established franchise is a collaborative venture between two prominent business entities. Haldiram Snacks Food Pvt. Ltd., one of India's most recognized food brands, has partnered with the KLJ Group of Companies, a major manufacturer of Plasticizers, Chemicals, and Polymer Compounding with operations in India, Qatar, and Thailand. This partnership brings together diverse industrial expertise to support the growth of golf in India.
Inaugural Edition Details and Venues
The inaugural season of 72 The League, which is a joint initiative by PGTI and Game of Life Sports (GOLS), is scheduled to commence on February 21. The tournament will be hosted across three of the most prestigious golf venues in the Delhi-National Capital Region. These include the Classic Golf & Country Club, Jaypee Greens, and Qutab Golf Course, offering top-tier facilities for the competitors.
League Structure and Player Selection
The league will operate on a city-based franchise model, with each team consisting of 10 professional players. The selection process will be conducted through a transparent player auction, ensuring fairness and competitive balance. This format is designed to attract leading golfers from the PGTI circuit, creating what is anticipated to be one of the largest and most competitive platforms ever seen in Indian professional golf.
Official Agreement and Leadership Statements
On Monday, a formal agreement was signed between the franchise owners and PGTI leadership. Manohar Lal Agarwal, Chairman and Managing Director of Haldiram Snacks Food Pvt. Ltd., and Hemant Jain, Group Managing Director of the KLJ Group of Companies, entered into this partnership with Kapil Dev, President of PGTI.
Kapil Dev expressed his enthusiasm in a release, stating, "It is wonderful to have Haldiram & KLJ join PGTI’s 72 The League, adding a new dimension to the competition. This team is sure to spark excitement and pride among golf enthusiasts across the state of Rajasthan and I wish them all the best."
Impact on Indian Golf
The addition of the Rajasthan franchise is expected to enhance the league's reach and popularity, particularly in a region with a growing interest in golf. By involving major corporate players like Haldiram and KLJ Group, PGTI aims to boost the sport's profile and provide a robust platform for professional golfers to showcase their talent. This move aligns with broader efforts to promote golf as a mainstream sport in India, attracting both players and fans through innovative league structures and strategic partnerships.
