Sourav Ganguly makes first major move as CAB President, ropes in Bengal Cricket sponsor
In his first major move as Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) President Sourav Ganguly has unveiled IDBI Federal Life Insurance as Bengal cricket’s title sponsor for the next two years. The Mumbai-based insurance company has paid Rs 1 crore, to garner jersey visibility, major mentions in CAB’s flagship Vision 20-20 programme and also stadium branding, during Bengal Ranji Trophy matches.
Ganguly told Sportskeeda, “This partnership with IDBI is to enhance the stature of Bengal Cricket. They will be an integral part of our plans, both Ranji Trophy wise and Vision 20-20. Hopefully, we can have national team players, within the next couple of years. We already have several grassroot level programmes running, with Vision 20-20 and that will help streamline talent for the Bengal team.”
He added, “Sadly, cricket is not like fast food, hence we can’t expect any immediate results, There are no milestones set in place, but we do have financial support now, which will help us go a long way in producing quality cricketers at regular intervals.”
After being elected as CAB Chief last month, Ganguly was expected to make significant changes to its setup. The Eden Gardens debacle, which saw the India-South Africa T-20 called off, without a ball being bowled led to severe scrutiny directed towards Bengal cricket’s governing body. However, this latest financial injection will also be used to improve infrastructure within the stadium.
Ganguly added, “The money will be used holistically, to help build Bengal Cricket as a whole. We are looking forward to our partnership with IDBI Federal Life Insurance.”
The gala event to introduce their latest sponsors also saw the Bengal cricket team, across various age categories. IDBI Federal Life Insurance CEO, Vighnesh Shahane, said, “We might be based out of Mumbai, but our largest market is in Kolkata. Apart from brand visibility, I myself was a professional cricketer at one point, so we are really committed to CAB’s attempt at creating winners.”
He added, “Initially we were a bit hessitant with all that we had on our plate, we already are title sponsors of the Kolkata Marathon, Kochi Marathon and a bowling Academy in Mumbai. But, after talking to Sourav, I realised the professional approach behind this ambitious project and I was game since then.”
Bengal drew their first Group A game against defending Champions Karnataka, with Captain Manoj Tiwary being declared Man of the Match. They are all set to face Rajastan on October 15, with their new sponsor on board. The sponsorship deal was facilitated by High Life Event Management Consultancy.