In a significant development for the burgeoning Indian Street Premier League (ISPL), former Indian cricket captain and iconic figure Sourav Ganguly has officially entered the league's fold. Ganguly has taken on the dual roles of co-owner and brand ambassador for the Tiigers of Kolkata franchise, marking a major endorsement for the tennis ball cricket tournament.
Dada's New Innings in Street Cricket
The announcement, made public on December 18, 2025, sees 'Dada' associating himself with the grassroots-oriented ISPL. Ganguly shared his enthusiasm for this new venture, reflecting on the core essence of the league. He delved into his own early memories of playing tennis ball cricket, a format that forms the foundation for countless cricketers across India's towns and villages.
His association is expected to bring immense visibility and credibility to the Tiigers of Kolkata and the ISPL as a whole. Ganguly emphasized the importance of such platforms in nurturing talent at the grassroots level, providing a structured pathway for players who excel in the informal, yet fiercely competitive, realm of street and tape-ball cricket.
Ganguly Weighs In on IPL Auctions and Test Cricket
Beyond discussing his ISPL role, the former captain also shared his perspectives on two pressing topics in contemporary Indian cricket. He commented on the notable trend of uncapped Indian players commanding massive sums in the recent IPL auction, a phenomenon that has sparked widespread debate.
Furthermore, Ganguly addressed the Indian Test team's recent drop in the rankings following consecutive home series defeats to New Zealand and South Africa. His insights, coming from a revered former skipper and administrator, add weight to the ongoing discussion about the team's strategy and future in the longest format of the game.
Boosting the ISPL's Profile
Ganguly's entry as a franchise co-owner is a strategic coup for the ISPL. His deep connection with Kolkata and his monumental status in Indian cricket make him the perfect face for the city's franchise. This move aligns with the league's ambition to blend star power with authentic street cricket culture, aiming to tap into the vast talent pool that exists beyond traditional turf wickets.
The involvement of a legend like Sourav Ganguly is poised to attract more attention, investment, and viewership to the Indian Street Premier League, solidifying its position as a serious and exciting addition to India's cricket ecosystem.