THE INTERNATIONAL MASTERS LEAGUE GOES FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH; NINE LEADING BRANDS COME ONBOARD AS PARTNERS IN INAUGURAL SEASON

The much-anticipated International Masters League (IML) has announced an array of distinguished sponsors and partners.

• CIFDAQ Global - Platinum Sponsor

• Bank of Baroda - Platinum Sponsor

• Dream 11 - Official Fantasy Sports Partner

• NMDC - Official Partner

• SAIL - Official Partner

• NTPC - Official Partner

• Roobat - Official Partner

• Mutual Funds Sahi Hai - Umpire Partner

• Campa Cola – Pouring Partner

The IML is set for a spectacular start with a high-voltage clash between Sachin Tendulkar’s India Masters and Kumar Sangakkara’s Sri Lanka Masters on February 22. Cricket fans worldwide can expect an electrifying contest as two iconic teams reignite their rivalry, in what promises to be a grand spectacle of skill, nostalgia, and competitive spirit.

The tournament opener will rekindle memories of the iconic 2011 ICC World Cup final, where India lifted the coveted trophy in front of a packed Mumbai crowd. With key players from that unforgettable night now taking centre-stage in the IML, the clash between India Masters and Sri Lanka Masters carries extra significance. Both teams will be eager to make a winning start, setting the tone for an exhilarating season ahead.

Romesh Kaluwitharana of Sri Lanka Masters expressed his views on the tournament and the opening clash with India, stating, “It will be nice. I think playing in India has always been special to us. India, we call our brother. We have a special bond with the players we used to play with, especially Sachin and the rest. It's good to be back in India and play with them. It’s going to be fun.”

Shedding light on the team preparations and the players to watch out for, he said, “I think we have been training for two days. We have a good balance. I think Sangakkara is going to be the key for us. We have a very good side to give a good go to India. And hopefully the best team wins. I think we have done our homework. Hopefully, we will have a good game.”

The playing conditions for the first season of the International Masters League have been finalised by the Governing Council and Simon Taufel, the head of the umpires’ panel for the league.

The PCs of the IML are similar to those of other prominent leagues, with a couple of innovations. A significant inclusion in the PCs pertains to a Free Hit delivery. The batting team will not get any runs off a Free Hit delivery, if the batter is bowled or caught off that delivery.

The impact player, mid-over stop clock and player reviews for wides and no-balls will not be in operation in the IML.

The DRS will be in place.

Gundappa Vishwanath will be the Match Referee for the league and the umpiring panel will comprise Simon Taufel (head), Billy Bowden, Lyndon Hannibal and Umesh Dubey.

“The International Masters League will feature some of the greatest cricketers and competitors of all time. They will be complemented by an elite panel of officials. Cricket has always been a dynamic game and the players have been quick to react to changes in playing conditions. It will be interesting to see how the Free Hit innovation that is being introduced in the IML, will impact the matches,” Simon Taufel, the head of the umpires’ panel, said.

Watch the IML February 22nd onwards, live on JioHotstar along with Colors Cineplex (SD & HD) and Colors Cineplex Superhits will broadcast the IML live, 7.30 pm onwards.