Name - Jayshree Paul

Semester - II
Reg no. - 12401783 of 2024-2025
Class Roll no. - MAEJMC/24-25/0036
Exam Roll no. - RAB/MCVS/240261
Paper Name - Introduction to New
Media
Paper code - 2.2
Topic - A comparative study
between IPL & ISL
Teacher’s Name - Prof. Sudipta Paul
The Indian Premier League (IPL), reinvented the nation’s cricket league by
transforming a long-winded ‘gentlemen’s game’ into a thrilling three-hour sports
drama featuring Bollywood stars.

It created a new market space known as ‘cricketainment’ whereby cricket is played

and enjoyed in a completely different way from all other cricket games. It unlocked
huge demand from audiences that had previously ignored or rejected
the traditional form of the game. The IPL league is contested by
eight teams representing eight cities in India. Fans of the game get to
see some of the best cricket players in the world while enjoying
Bollywood music and entertainment from cheerleaders during the
intermissions.

The Indian Super League (ISL), kicked off on October 12, 2014 and
was recognised as India’s top tier domestic league by FIFA and AFC in
October 2019. The league is co-promoted by Reliance, Star India and supported by
the All India Football Federation (AIFF). India’s leading industrialists and celebrities
from sports as well as the Indian film industry have heavily invested in the league’s
13 clubs based in the following cities: Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Delhi, Goa, Guwahati,
Kochi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Jamshedpur.

Later, when ATK (Atletico De Kolkata) got merged with Mohunbagan FC, two giants
of football from Bengal, East Bengal FC and Mohunbagan FC got introduced to ISL. As
a Nation with immense history of football, where a team of newbie 11 defeated a
British team of well-trained 11, without even shoes. ISL is trying to recall the strength
of Indian football.

Characteristics of the IPL

1. Franchise Model - Launched in 2008 by the Board of Control for Cricket in India
(BCCI), the IPL runs in a franchise system. Teams represent major Indian cities and
are owned by a mix of corporate entities and celebrities, such as Shah Rukh Khan and
Juhi Chawla's ownership of the Kolkata Knight Riders, Sanjeev Goenka's ownership of
the LSG (Lucknow Super Giant)

2. T20 Format - Matches are played in the T20 format, known for its fast-paced and
high-energy games. This format has broadened cricket's appeal, attracting both
traditional fans and new audiences. Each team contains 12 players to play.

3. Global Player Participation - The IPL features a blend of Indian and international
players. The league's auctions are highly anticipated events where teams bid for top
talent from around the world, enhancing the competitive spirit and global appeal of
the tournament.

4. Entertainment Integration - Beyond cricket, the IPL is renowned for its

entertainment value. Elements like cheerleaders, musical performances, and
celebrity appearances transform matches into grand spectacles, offering a carnival-
like atmosphere.

5. Economic Impact - The IPL is one of the wealthiest sports leagues globally. In 2023,
its media rights were sold for global economic footprint.

Characteristics of the Indian Super League

1. League Structure - Season Format: The ISL season

typically runs from November to March.

Match Schedule: Each team plays against every other

team in a round-robin format, both home and away.

Playoffs: The top four teams at the end of the league

stage qualify for the playoffs, culminating in the ISL
Final to determine the champion.

2. Teams and Expansion - Initial Teams: The league began with eight teams.

Current Teams: As of the latest season, the ISL comprises 12 teams, including historic
clubs like Mohun Bagan and East Bengal, as well as newer franchises.

3. Player Composition - Marquee Players: Each team is allowed to sign a marquee

player, often an internationally renowned footballer, to boost the team's profile and
performance.

4. Governance and Partnerships - Organizers: The ISL is co-promoted by Reliance

Industries, Star India, and supported by the All India Football Federation (AIFF).

International Collaborations: Several ISL clubs have established partnerships with

European clubs to enhance player development and coaching methodologies. For
instance, Norwich City has partnered with Chennaiyin FC, and Borussia Dortmund
has collaborated with Hyderabad FC.
5. Broadcasting and Accessibility - Television
and Streaming: Matches are broadcasted on
Sports18 and streamed online, making the
league accessible to a broad audience.

Indian Super League

6. Fan Engagement and Growth - Rising

Popularity: The ISL has significantly
contributed to the growing interest in
football across India, with increasing fan
engagement and attendance.

Youth Development: Clubs are investing in grassroots programs to nurture young

talent and ensure the sport's sustainable growth in the country.

The Indian Super League continues to play a pivotal role in elevating the standard of
football in India, fostering talent, and bringing the sport closer to fans nationwide.

Comparative studies:

Where, the IPL (INDIAN PREMIER LEAGUE) runs for only 2-3 months, ISL(INDIAN
SUPER LEAGUE) runs for 3-4 months. But they have one similarity that every team
plays in round-robin format. Where the Cricket matches happen in T20 format
(within 20 overs). Both in IPL and ISL,
global players are seen playing. As
Indian football was suppressed for
some years by the circumstances while
Indian cricket got lot of chances to
grow, ISL is making new paths for the
Indian lads who dream to grow like
Sunil Chetri. Like IPL, ISL also has
franchises based model. Likewise in
IPL, Sanjeev Goyenka owns a team
partially (Mohunbagan) too. The group of Emami is with East Bengal Fc too.
Bollywood superstar, John Abraham owns Northeast FC. ISL is supported by AIFF (ALL
INDIA FOOTBALL FEDERATION) and IPL
is supported by BCCI (BOARD OF
CRICKET COUNCIL OF INDIA). Apart
from finding youngsters, both IPL and
ISL serve pure entertainment. While in
India, cricket was played professionally
from the very first, Indian audience and
Government refused to take football
seriously. It was quiet amateur from
the day one. Though India got chances
to play in FIFA World Cup, we didn't
take part for some reasons and
circumstances. Unlike the pan India,
the city of joy took football seriously as
we have the essence of football
through the lanes of Kolkata. After the
ISL came, India started liking football
more apart from the entertainment.
The professionalism of football increased. While IPL has a Bollywood impact, as a
newbie, ISL is also trying to gain the impact of Bollywood to gain more audience.
Likewise IPL, the Indian players are getting companies of experienced players from
Foreigners ( Dimitrios Petratos, Adrian Luna, Diego Forlan etc.)

As the impact of football is more on the World, than the impact of cricket, it was
quite disappointing for us to have population like 1.4 billion and not introducing a
bombastic team in football, where we have our Sunil Chetri to score more goals for
Nation after Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, ISL is making a place for India to
regain the power of football likewise Gostha Paul, Chuni Goswami etc.

Auction:
The Indian Premier League (IPL) player auction is an annual event where franchises
bid for cricketers to assemble their squads for the upcoming season. Here's a
detailed breakdown of how the auction process works:
1. Player Registration & Shortlisting - Registration: Cricketers from around the
world, including domestic and international players, register for the auction. Each
player sets a base price, which is the minimum amount they wish to be bid for.

Shortlisting: The IPL Governing Council, in consultation with the franchises, shortlists
a pool of players from the registered list to be part of the auction.

2. Team Purse & Composition Rules - Salary Cap: Each franchise is allocated a fixed
budget (e.g., ₹120 crore in IPL 2025) to spend on player acquisitions.

Squad Size: Teams must build a squad comprising a minimum of 18 and a maximum
of 25 players.

Overseas Players: A maximum of 8 overseas players can be included in a squad.

3. Retention & Right to Match (RTM) - Player Retention: Before the auction,
franchises can retain a certain number of players from their existing squad. For
instance, ahead of the 2025 auction, teams were allowed to retain up to six players,
with a maximum of five capped players and two uncapped Indian players.

Right to Match (RTM): Teams that didn't use all their retention slots can utilize RTM
cards during the auction. This allows a franchise to match the highest bid for a player
who was part of their previous squad, effectively retaining them.

4. Auction Format - Auctioneer: A professional auctioneer conducts the event,

presenting players one by one.

Bidding Process: Franchises bid for players, starting from the base price, with
increments defined by the auction rules. The highest bidder secures the player's
services.

Player Sets: Players are grouped into sets based on their roles (e.g., batsmen,
bowlers, all-rounders) and are presented in a predetermined order.

5. Accelerated Auction - Purpose: To expedite the auction process, especially in

later stages.
Process: After a certain number of players have been presented (e.g., after the 116th
player in IPL 2025), franchises can nominate players from the remaining pool for a
faster bidding process. This allows teams to focus on specific targets and fill
remaining squad spots efficiently.

6. Post-Auction Activities - Unsold Players: Players who remain unsold during the
main auction can be picked up later as replacements in case of injuries or
withdrawals.

Trading Window: Post-auction, the IPL opens trading windows where franchises can
trade players among themselves, subject to certain rules and player consent.

The IPL auction is a dynamic event that combines strategy, budgeting, and real-
time decision-making, making it
a cornerstone of the league's
competitive structure.

In 2015, the ISL conducted its

first and only player auction to
date. This auction was
specifically for Indian players
who had represented the
national team but did not
participate in the inaugural ISL
season. Each club was allowed
to acquire one player from this auction pool. Players not selected during the auction
were subsequently made available in the domestic player draft.

–––7. Auction Mechanics - Eligibility: Indian national team players absent from the
previous ISL season.

Bidding Process: Franchises bid on eligible players, with the highest bidder securing
the player's services.

Squad Composition: Teams were required to have a minimum of 22 players,

including at least one marquee player, eight international players, and thirteen
domestic players, two of whom had to be developmental players.

Post-Auction Draft - Following the auction, the ISL held a domestic player draft to
fill the remaining spots in team rosters. This draft featured 114 players, with only 40
being selected over seven rounds. The draft was primarily used to finalize the
domestic player quotas for each team.

Transition Back to Draft System - After the 2015 season, the ISL reverted to the
draft system for player acquisitions. This approach has remained in place, with teams
building their squads through domestic and international drafts, as well as direct
signings.

Comparative analysis:

In the field of IPL, the auction happens among players all over the world. But in ISL,
the auction first happened among Indian players who have played for National team
but not in any inaugural ISL team. Where in IPL, the event of auction is broadcasted,
presenting players. In IPL there's a budget of 120 crore INR, to secure 18-25 players
in a squad. Where in ISL, every squad can secure 22 players. In both IPL and ISL,
unwritten players can be sold while a team needs them.

In 2019 after getting recognition from FIFA as the top tier Domestic League of India,
Indian Super League started to follow the norms of FIFA Transfer Windows instead of
player auction to sign both domestic and international players.

Amusement:
The Indian Premier League (IPL) captivates millions not just as a cricket
tournament but as a multifaceted spectacle blending sport, entertainment, and
culture. Here's how it amuses and engages people:

Entertainment beyond Cricket

The IPL transforms cricket into a grand entertainment event. Matches are
accompanied by glitzy opening ceremonies, celebrity endorsements, live
performances, and cheerleaders energizing the crowds. This fusion of cricket with
Bollywood-style glamour ensures that each match is a festival, captivating fans of all
ages .

Global Talent and Cultural Exchange

By featuring international stars alongside domestic players, the IPL fosters a global
melting pot of talent. Players from different nations come together as teammates,
showcasing sportsmanship and collaboration. This unique mix not only raises the
quality of cricket but also promotes cultural exchange and friendships .

Spotlight on Emerging Talent

The IPL serves as a platform for young and aspiring cricketers to shine. For instance,
in 2025, 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi made headlines by becoming the youngest
player to score a century in the IPL, highlighting the league's role in unearthing
hidden gems.

Fan Engagement and Community Spirit

Teams like Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Chennai Super Kings boast passionate
fan bases. The "Whistle Podu Army" of CSK and RCB's "Bold Army" exemplify how
fans actively participate, turning stadiums into seas of team colors and chants. Such
engagement fosters a sense of community and belonging among supporters .

Technological Innovations

The IPL has been a pioneer in adopting

cutting-edge technology to enhance the
viewing experience. From ultra-edge
technology to slow-motion replays and
player-tracking systems, fans are treated to a
detailed and immersive cricket experience .

Economic Impact and Livelihoods

Beyond entertainment, the IPL significantly

contributes to the economy. It generates
employment across sectors like tourism, hospitality, event management, and media.
From stadium vendors to corporate sponsors, the IPL creates a ripple effect of
economic benefits.

Psychological Connection

The shared experience of watching IPL matches fosters deep and enduring bonds
among fans. Supporting a team or player becomes a source of identity and pride,
allowing people to connect over a common passion.
 In essence, the IPL's blend of high-octane cricket, entertainment, cultural
integration, and community engagement makes it a unique and captivating
phenomenon that amuses and unites people across diverse background.

The Indian Super League (ISL) captivates audiences through a blend of high-energy
football, vibrant fan culture, and engaging entertainment elements. Here's how it
amuses people:

Electrifying Football Action

The ISL delivers high-octane matches featuring both domestic and international
players, offering thrilling gameplay that keeps fans on the edge of their seats. The
league's competitive nature ensures that each game is filled with excitement and
unpredictability.

Immersive Fan Engagement

ISL clubs actively engage with their fan bases through various initiatives:

Interactive Social Media: The league

utilizes platforms like Twitter to offer
video highlights in multiple Indian
languages, including English, Tamil,
Bengali, and Malayalam. Fans can
participate in video polls to select their
Player of the Match, enhancing their
involvement in the game.

Fan Walls and Virtual Experiences:

During the pandemic, ISL introduced
'Fan Walls' to bring supporters closer to
the action, even when matches were
held behind closed doors.

Vibrant Supporter Culture: The league boasts passionate fan bases that contribute
to the lively atmosphere:

Manjappada (Kerala Blasters): Known for their unwavering support, they have
organized large-scale fan movements, including transporting thousands of fans to
matches and releasing musical albums like 'Padayani' to motivate the team.
Mariners' Base Camp (Mohun Bagan): This group has modernized fan movements
through tifos, chants, and social causes, enhancing the matchday experience.

Entertainment Beyond the Pitch

ISL integrates entertainment elements to enhance the overall experience:

Musical Tributes: Kerala Blasters released 'Yennum Yellow,' an EP dedicated to their

fans, blending rock and rap to celebrate the team's spirit.

Mascots and Fan Activities: FC Goa introduced 'Gaurdinho,' a mascot designed to

rally fans and create a carnival-like atmosphere during matches.

Expansive Media Coverage

The ISL ensures widespread accessibility and engagement through.

SSSSSMulti-Language Broadcasts:
Matches are broadcasted across various
channels in multiple languages, catering
to a diverse audience.

Digital Streaming: Partnerships with

platforms like JioCinema offer
immersive multi-camera viewing
experiences, allowing fans to select
preferred angles and enjoy matches
dynamically.

Cultural Integration and Inclusivity

The league embraces cultural diversity

and inclusivity:

Regional Celebrations: By incorporating

local cultures and traditions into events,
the ISL resonates with a broad audience, celebrating India's regional diversity.

Inclusive Fan Experiences: Heart-warming moments, such as a fan narrating the

match to visually impaired friends, highlight the league's commitment to inclusivity
and community.
By combining thrilling football, passionate fan engagement, and diverse
entertainment elements, the Indian Super League offers an immersive and enjoyable
experience for football enthusiasts across India and beyond.

Comparative analysis:
Entertainment & Spectacle

IPL: Renowned for its grandiose opening ceremonies, the IPL features performances
by top Bollywood celebrities and international artists. For instance, the 2025 season
commenced with performances by Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and the American
pop band OneRepublic at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Cheerleaders, vibrant music, and
celebrity endorsements further enhance the festive atmosphere.

Technological Innovations & Media Coverage

IPL: A pioneer in adopting cutting-edge technology, the IPL enhances the viewing
experience with ultra-edge technology, slow-motion replays, and player-tracking
systems.

ISL: The league ensures widespread accessibility through multi-language broadcasts

and digital streaming partnerships. For instance, Viacom18 secured exclusive media
rights for ISL, broadcasting matches across various platforms and languages .

Economic Impact & Livelihoods

IPL: Beyond entertainment, the IPL significantly contributes to the economy,

generating employment across sectors like tourism, hospitality, event management,
and media.

ISL: The ISL also plays a role in boosting local economies, particularly in regions
where football is gaining popularity, by creating jobs and promoting tourism during
match seasons.

Psychological Connection & Inclusivity

IPL: The shared experience of watching IPL matches fosters deep and enduring bonds
among fans. Supporting a team or player becomes a source of identity and pride.

ISL: The league embraces cultural diversity and inclusivity. Heartwarming moments,
such as a fan narrating the match to visually impaired friends, highlight the league's
commitment to inclusivity and community.
 In summary, while both the IPL and ISL offer thrilling sports action, their approaches
to entertainment and fan engagement differ. The IPL leans heavily into Bollywood-
style glamour and technological enhancements, creating a cricketing carnival. In
contrast, the ISL focuses on grassroots fan culture, community involvement, and
regional pride, fostering a deep connection with its audience.

Investment
The Indian Premier League (IPL) continues to be a significant arena for both
cricketing and financial investments. Here's an overview of recent developments :

Financial Investments in IPL 2025

Player Acquisitions: The 2025 mega auction witnessed substantial investments in

players. Notably, Rishabh Pant was acquired by Lucknow Super Giants for ₹27 crore,
marking the highest-ever price tag in IPL history. However, his performance has not
met expectations, highlighting the risks associated with high-value investments.

Underperforming Investments : Sunrisers Hyderabad invested ₹11.4 crore in Ishan

Kishan, who, despite an initial century, struggled in subsequent matches, averaging
just 19.60 over 11 games. This underscores the unpredictability of returns on player
investments.

Impact of Geopolitical Events

Tournament Suspension: The IPL faced a week-long suspension due to India-Pakistan
border tensions, leading to significant financial implications. The Board of Control for
Cricket in India (BCCI) and broadcasters faced potential losses amounting to
hundreds of crores, emphasizing the vulnerability of sports investments to
geopolitical factors.

Advertising Revenue: The suspension also affected advertisers with locked-in

investments, prompting concerns over returns and the need for contingency
planning in sports marketing strategies.

Advertising and Sponsorship Dynamics

Increased Ad Rates: With the resumption of the IPL, advertising rates have surged,
especially for high-stakes matches like semi-finals and finals. Brands are racing to
capitalize on the limited window, reflecting the league's significant commercial
appeal.

Innovative Advertising Strategies: Reliance Industries, following its media merger

with Walt Disney, is employing neuroscience-based 'brain mapping' techniques to
attract advertisers. This approach aims to demonstrate higher engagement rates for
IPL streaming ads, offering new avenues for monetization.

International Investment Speculations

Saudi Arabia's Interest: While there have been speculations about Saudi Arabia
investing in the IPL, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal clarified that no formal proposals
have been received. However, Saudi entities like Aramco and Neom have entered
sponsorship agreements, indicating growing international interest in the league's
commercial potential.

In summary, IPL 2025 showcases the intricate interplay between sports performance
and financial investments. While the league offers lucrative opportunities, it also
presents challenges that require strategic planning and adaptability from investors
and stakeholders.

Recent Developments in IPL 2025 Investments and Advertising

How India's richest man is using 'brain mapping' neuroscience to woo advertisers to
cricket 80 days ago.

Investing in the Indian Super League (ISL) offers a promising opportunity, as the
league is in a growth phase with increasing interest from private equity firms,
celebrities, and global sports investors. Here's an overview of the current investment
landscape:

Investment Landscape in the ISL

Private Equity Interest: The ISL has attracted attention from private equity investors.
For instance, CVC Capital's involvement in Indian sports franchises indicates growing
confidence in the sector.

S&R Associates
Celebrity and Corporate Ownership: Several ISL clubs are owned or co-owned by
prominent individuals and corporations. For example, FC Goa is co-owned by Jaydev
Mody (65%), Akshay Tandon (23%), and Virat Kohli (12%) .

International Investments: City Football Group, the owner of Manchester City FC,
acquired a 65% stake in Mumbai City FC, reflecting international interest in the ISL.

Ownership Structures of ISL Clubs

ISL clubs exhibit diverse ownership models:

The Times of India

Corporate Ownership: Clubs like Jamshedpur FC are owned by Tata Steel,

indicating strong corporate backing.

Celebrity Involvement: Celebrities such as John Abraham own North East United
FC, showcasing the league's appeal to high-profile individuals.

Consortiums and Partnerships: Some clubs are managed by consortiums combining

business and entertainment figures, as seen with Kerala Blasters FC.

Growth Potential and Market Dynamics

Expanding Fan Base: India's vast population and increasing interest in football
present a significant opportunity for fan base expansion.

Media Rights and Revenue: While currently, television rights revenue is not shared
with ISL teams, the potential for future revenue-sharing models could enhance club
profitability.

Infrastructure Development: Investments in stadiums and training facilities are on

the rise, contributing to the league's professionalization.

Considerations for Potential Investors

Due Diligence: Assess the financial health and management structures of clubs before
investing.

Regulatory Environment: Understand the regulations set by the All India Football
Federation (AIFF) and Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), which govern
the league's operations.

Long-Term Commitment: Investing in the ISL may require a long-term perspective

to realize returns as the league matures.
Investing in the Indian Super League (ISL) presents a compelling opportunity as
Indian football continues to grow in popularity and commercial viability. With
increasing fan engagement, infrastructural development, and international
partnerships, the ISL is gradually establishing itself as a significant player in the
global football landscape.

Investment Avenues in the ISL

1. Club Ownership and Equity Stakes
2. Several ISL clubs offer opportunities for investment through ownership or
equity stakes:

Mumbai City FC: In 2019, City Football Group (owners of Manchester City FC)
acquired a 65% stake in Mumbai City FC, marking a significant international
investment in the league.

FC Goa: Co-owned by Jaydev Mody (65%), Akshay Tandon (23%), and Virat Kohli
(12%), FC Goa exemplifies a blend of corporate and celebrity investment.

NorthEast United FC: Owned by Bollywood actor John Abraham, this club highlights
the appeal of the ISL to prominent personalities.

Jamshedpur FC: Owned by Tata Steel, the club benefits from strong corporate backing
and has invested in its own stadium and training facilities.

2. Strategic Partnerships and Sponsorships

Beyond ownership, forming strategic partnerships or sponsorships with ISL clubs can
provide brand visibility and engagement with a growing fan base. For instance,
Odisha FC has made significant strides by investing in infrastructure and aiming to
elevate football in the state, presenting potential collaborative opportunities.

3. Infrastructure and Grassroots Development

Investing in football infrastructure, such as stadiums, training academies, and youth

development programs, can yield long-term benefits. Clubs like Odisha FC are
focusing on grassroots development to build a sustainable talent pipeline.

Financial Considerations

Franchise Fees: ISL clubs are required to pay an annual franchise fee ranging
between ₹12 crore and ₹16 crore.
Revenue Sharing: Currently, clubs promoted from the I-League to the ISL do not pay
the franchise fee but are also not eligible for a share of the league’s central revenue.

Operational Costs: Significant investments are needed for player acquisitions, staff
salaries, marketing, and infrastructure maintenance.

International Interest and Market Potential

The ISL has garnered attention from international entities:
City Football Group's Investment: Their acquisition of a majority stake in Mumbai
City FC underscores the league's growing global appeal

European Club Partnerships: Clubs like Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig have
established collaborations with Indian clubs to share expertise in player development
and coaching.

Steps to Consider for Investment

Identify Target Clubs: Research clubs that align with your investment goals and
assess their financial health, fan base, and growth potential.

Engage with Stakeholders: Initiate discussions with club owners, the All India
Football Federation (AIFF), and Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) to
understand investment opportunities and regulatory requirements.

Due Diligence: Conduct thorough due diligence, including financial audits and legal
assessments, before finalizing any investment.

Long-Term Commitment: Recognize that returns on investment in football clubs often

materialize over the long term, necessitating patience and sustained support.

Comparative Analysis: IPL vs ISL Investment Landscape

1. Financial Investments

IPL: Mega auction saw record buys—Rishabh Pant (₹27 Cr by LSG), Ishan Kishan
(₹11.4 Cr by SRH) underperformed, highlighting investment risks.

ISL: Growing private equity and celebrity interest; e.g., City Football Group owns
65% of Mumbai City FC.

2. External Influences

IPL: Suspended due to India-Pakistan tensions, causing heavy broadcaster and

sponsor losses.
ISL: Stable operations, but evolving under AIFF and FSDL regulations.

3. Advertising & Sponsorships

IPL: High ad rates, advanced strategies like 'brain mapping' used by Reliance to attract
advertisers.

ISL: Increasing brand partnerships; Odisha FC and others leveraging grassroots

development for visibility.

4. Ownership Models
IPL: Franchise model with massive corporate backing.

ISL: Mix of corporate (Tata Steel – Jamshedpur FC) and celebrity ownership (John
Abraham – NorthEast United FC).

5. International Interest
IPL: Speculations around Saudi investment; Aramco, Neom already sponsors.

ISL: Strong global interest (e.g., City Football Group, European club tie-ups).

Conclusion:
IPL offers high returns but comes with volatility and external risks. ISL, while
smaller in scale, presents stable, long-term growth opportunities with rising
global appeal.

Popularity with audience:

Popularity of IPL with Audiences (2025 Snapshot):

Massive Viewership

IPL consistently ranks among the most-watched sporting events globally.

IPL 2025 crossed 600 million viewers across TV and digital platforms during the
league phase alone.

Strong Digital Engagement

Streaming platforms like JioCinema offer free access, boosting reach, especially
among younger audiences.

Peak concurrent viewership crossed 3.2 crore during key matches (e.g., MI vs CSK).

Diverse Audience Base

Appeals across age groups, regions, and demographics.

Strong following not only in metros but also Tier 2 and 3 cities.

Fan Loyalty & Team Culture

Franchises like CSK, MI, and RCB have cult-like followings, with fans engaging
year-round on social media and merchandise.

Celebrity & Entertainment Factor

Combines cricket with Bollywood glamour and entertainment, enhancing its mass
appeal.

Global Reach

Broadcast in over 120 countries, attracting South Asian diaspora and international
cricket fans.

Summary:
The IPL remains a cultural and commercial juggernaut in India, with unmatched
popularity, deep fan engagement, and growing global reach.

Popularity of ISL Among Audiences (2025 Snapshot):

Growing Fan Base

ISL viewership has steadily increased, especially in football-loving states like Kerala,
West Bengal, Goa, and the Northeast.

Kerala Blasters FC, for instance, regularly records stadium attendances of 30,000+.

Digital and Youth Appeal

Streaming platforms and social media have expanded ISL’s reach among urban youth.

Regional fan clubs and online communities are actively growing.

Regional Pride
Clubs are strongly tied to regional identities, creating loyal local fan bases (e.g.,
Mohun Bagan SG, NorthEast United FC).

Celebrity Influence

Celebrity owners like Virat Kohli (FC Goa) and John Abraham (NorthEast United
FC) attract attention and fans.

International Collaborations Partnerships with European clubs (e.g., Borussia

Dortmund, City Football Group) enhance credibility and visibility.

Challenges
Still behind IPL in terms of national viewership and commercial scale.

Limited exposure outside football-centric regions and less frequent marquee

matchups.

Summary:

ISL is gaining steady popularity with strong regional and youth support. While it lacks
the nationwide dominance of the IPL, it shows promising growth and increasing
engagement, especially in India’s emerging football markets.

Comparative Analysis: IPL vs ISL Popularity (2025)

1. Viewership & Reach

IPL: 600M+ viewers; peak digital concurrency at 3.2 crore; global broadcast in 120+
countries.

ISL: Growing viewership in football hubs (Kerala, Goa, Northeast); stadium crowds
up to 30,000.

2. Audience Profile

IPL: Mass appeal across age, region, and demographics; strong Tier 2 & 3
engagement.

ISL: Youth-focused with regional loyalty; fan clubs and digital communities
expanding.

3. Fan Engagement
IPL: Year-round fan culture (e.g., CSK, MI); high social media and merchandise
activity.

ISL: Passionate regional fans (e.g., Kerala Blasters); increasing celebrity-led buzz.

4. Entertainment & Influence

IPL: Cricket + Bollywood = major entertainment draw.

ISL: Backed by celebrities and global football brands; slower national traction.

Summary:
IPL dominates with nationwide and global popularity, while ISL is steadily growing
through regional passion, youth appeal, and international tie-ups.

Controversy:
IPL:
1. Match-Fixing & Spot-Fixing (2013):

Major scandal involving players (e.g., S. Sreesanth) and team officials from Rajasthan
Royals and CSK led to arrests and temporary suspensions of both franchises.

Conflict of Interest:

Allegations against key officials like N. Srinivasan (then BCCI president) for owning
a franchise (CSK) while holding a governing role.

Player Auction Criticism:

High-price buys often face scrutiny, especially when players underperform (e.g., Rishabh Pant in 2025).

Geopolitical Interruptions (2025):

A temporary suspension due to India-Pakistan tensions caused financial disruption and

sponsor losses.

Venue Shifts:

Political or environmental issues (e.g., droughts, elections) have forced matches to

move out of certain states, causing logistical and fan backlash.
Summary:

While immensely popular, the IPL has faced controversies around fixing, governance,
and politics, highlighting the challenges of managing a high-stakes sports league.

ISL:
The Indian Super League (ISL) has been embroiled in several controversies in recent
years, reflecting deeper issues within Indian football governance and club
management. Here's a concise overview:

Legal and Governance Turmoil

AIFF-FSDL Agreement Under Scrutiny: The Supreme Court of India is reviewing

the Master Rights Agreement between the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and
Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), which oversees the ISL. The court has
paused any renewal of this agreement until a verdict is reached, casting uncertainty
over the ISL's 2025–26 season and the league's structural future.

Club Licensing Failures: Seven ISL clubs, including Odisha FC, Kerala Blasters,
and Hyderabad FC, failed to secure the Premier 1 License for the 2025–26 season due
to unmet criteria, such as inadequate stadium and training facilities. These clubs may
appeal or seek exemptions to participate in national competitions.

Match-Fixing Allegations
Early ISL Seasons: There have been allegations of match-fixing dating back to the
league's inception. Notably, clubs like Salgaocar and Dempo reportedly faced
sanctions after raising concerns about such practices. While official statements have
been removed, discussions persist among fans and stakeholders.

I-League Title Dispute

Churchill Brothers vs. Inter Kashi: The 2024–25 I-League season ended in
controversy when Churchill Brothers topped the table with 40 points, but a pending
appeal involving Inter Kashi's forfeited match could alter the final standings.
Churchill Brothers threatened to withdraw from the Super Cup over this unresolved
issue.

FIFA Sanctions

Mohun Bagan Transfer Ban: FIFA imposed a ban on Mohun Bagan Super Giant
from registering new players due to a "technical glitch" related to the transfer of
Australian striker Jason Cummings in 2023. The club is working to resolve the issue
and lift the ban.

On-Field Controversies
Kerala Blasters Walk-Off: In a 2023 playoff match, Kerala Blasters walked off the
pitch in protest after a controversial free-kick goal by Bengaluru FC's Sunil Chhetri.
The All India Football Federation fined the club ₹4 crore and imposed a 10-match ban
on coach Ivan Vukomanović.

Player Conduct Issues

Sandesh Jhingan's Sexist Remark: In 2022, defender Sandesh Jhingan faced

backlash for a sexist comment made after a match. He issued a public apology
following widespread criticism.

These incidents highlight significant challenges in governance, infrastructure, and

professionalism within Indian football. Addressing these issues is crucial for the
league's credibility and growth.

Here’s a concise comparative analysis between IPL and ISL controversies:

IPL (Indian Premier League)

Match & Spot-Fixing (2013): Major scandal involving Rajasthan Royals and CSK
players, leading to arrests and franchise suspensions.

Conflict of Interest: BCCI head N. Srinivasan's dual role as CSK owner and board
official raised ethical concerns.

Auction Criticism: High-price buys like Rishabh Pant (2025) attract backlash if
performance lags.

Geopolitical Interruptions: India-Pakistan tensions in 2025 led to suspension, causing

sponsor losses.

Venue Shifts: Droughts and elections have forced matches to move, upsetting fans and
logistics.

ISL (Indian Super League)

Legal Turmoil: Supreme Court is reviewing the AIFF-FSDL agreement, risking the
2025–26 season.

Club Licensing Failures: Seven clubs, including Kerala Blasters and Odisha FC,
denied licenses over infrastructure issues.

Match-Fixing Allegations: Persistent claims since early seasons, though not officially
confirmed.

I-League Title Dispute: Ongoing appeal over Inter Kashi’s forfeited match challenges
Churchill Brothers’ title.

FIFA Sanctions: Mohun Bagan faces a transfer ban due to unresolved payment issues.

On-Field Controversy: Kerala Blasters’ 2023 walk-off led to fines and a coach ban.

Player Conduct: Sandesh Jhingan apologized after sexist remarks sparked backlash.

Summary:
Both leagues face integrity, governance, and operational challenges. While IPL deals
more with high-profile fixing and political issues, ISL struggles with legal uncertainty,
club mismanagement, and infrastructure shortfalls.
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 Acknowledgement:

I express my heartfelt gratitude to my Prof. Sudipta Paul sir, for their invaluable
guidance in completing my project.

I am also thankful to my parents and friends for their constant encouragement and
cooperation throughout this project.