'Completely let down by this call' - Dejected fans express dismay after CSK pulls out from WIPL
Apart from the Chennai-based franchise, it has been reported that newcomers Lucknow Super Giants and Gujarat Titans have also opted against acquiring a WIPL team.
While several IPL franchises remain in the hunt for acquiring a Women’s IPL (WIPL) team, four-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have pulled the plug on their ambitions. According to reports, CSK pulled out from the race of acquiring a WIPL team owing to their business strategy, thereby disappointing fans all around the country.
Former BCCI president Sourav Ganguly tabled the idea of WIPL last year, and the initiative has gained momentum ever since then. It received further traction when Viacom18 grabbed the media rights of the WIPL for a whopping Rs 951 crore for five years. The deal means that BCCI would be earning INR 7.90 Cr for each match, which is more than any other franchise league apart from the IPL.
However, Chennai Super Kings, four-time IPL winners and one of the most popular franchises across the globe pulled out from the race of acquiring a WIPL team despite grabbing the ITT document, released by the BCCI. Apart from the Chennai-based franchise, it has been reported that newcomers Lucknow Super Giants and Gujarat Titans have also opted against acquiring a WIPL team. But Chennai might still have a representation in the competition after Shriram Group and Sun Network submitted the technical bid for a Women's IPL team.
The WIPL could be a game-changer in the sport since it is likely to attract a huge crowd for the games due to the international quality on display on the pitch. Although it will be the third women's franchise tournament after the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) and Women’s Super Smash (New Zealand), it is expected to surpass the other two competitions in terms of quality and revenue.
CSK's withdrawal is a big jolt to BCCI's aspiration as it boasts one of the largest fanbases in the country. The fans were equally disappointed with the move and expressed their disappointment via Twitter. English star Kate Cross, who is a vocal supporter of the new initiative and a fan of the Chennai-based franchise, also expressed her dismay after the news of CSK's departure.
Here is how Twitter reacted to CSK's departure from the WIPL:
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