IPL 2024: Former BCCI GM Amrit Mathur Reveals How Akshay Kumar Rescued Delhi Capitals From Financial Losses in 2009

Former BCCI General Manager Amrit Mathur revealed that Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar made an extraordinary decision in 2009 to terminate his highly lucrative contract with the Delhi Daredevils (now Capitals) in order to rescue the franchise from incurring losses at that time.

Akshay Kumar signed a three-year agreement with the Delhi-based franchise involving promotional films, meet-and-greet events, and corporate appearances. However, the franchise owners were unable to fulfill their contractual obligations due to financial challenges as they aimed to cut down on losses.

Decided Cancel Or Renegotiate The Contract – Amrit Mathur

In his autobiography titled ‘Pitchside: My Life in Indian Cricket,’ Amrit Mathur disclosed how Akshay Kumar rescued the Delhi Daredevils from financial losses.

“Akshay signed a three-year deal with Delhi Daredevils to shoot promotional films, attend meet and greet events and make appearances at corporate events…” Mathur wrote.

“Apart from Kotla act (he performed daring stunts), nothing much happened because DD didn’t know how to leverage him. At the end of the season, during elaborate post-mortem held against backdrop of serious financial losses, DD decided to cancel or renegotiate the contract.”

During the second edition of the IPL, Amrit Mathur served as the Chief Operating Officer for the franchise. The team secured the top spot in the 8-team points table, but they faced defeat against the Deccan Chargers in the semi-final match.

Akshay’s Contract Provided No Exit – Amrit Mathur

Mathur went on to explain that it became a challenging task for them as Akshay Kumar’s contract did not include an exit clause.

“Akshay’s contract provided no exit; on the contrary, it gave him solid guarantees for a period of three years. DD’s lawyers approached Akshay’s staff, wanting to revisit the contract, but they made no headway.”

“The (legally correct) response from his side was that contract didn’t factor in early termination and it has run its course with full monetary compensation.”

“Seen from perspective of DD, Akshay’s multi-crore contract could be equated to a self-goal or hit-wicket dismissal. Considering the disastrous financial results and need for austerity, the star had become an avoidable expense. Knowing there was no legal lifeline available, DD appealed to Akshay for mercy.”

Akshay Kumar’s career was flourishing with hits like Welcome, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Namaste London, and Heyy Baby in 2007, followed by Singh is Kinng in 2008. However, Tashan, De Dana Dan, and Kambakht Ishq failed to become successful.

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