Anticipated to be a global phenomenon, the International Masters League (IML) would include an exciting T20 franchise event featuring renowned players from six cricketing superpowers: Australia, England, South Africa, Sri Lanka, India, and the West Indies.
The first iteration will take place from November 17 until December 8. The first leg of four matches will be held at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.
On November 17, a thrilling match between India and Sri Lanka will begin the competition. Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara will square off in a match that is a throwback to their historic meetings in the past.
Shane Watson’s Australia will play Jacques Kallis’ South Africa in the second game, and then Sri Lanka will play Eoin Morgan’s England in another match. In what could be an exciting match, Australia will be faced by Brian Lara and his West Indies squad when they return to the field.
On November 21, the match between India and South Africa will take place at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee (BRSABV) Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow.
After six games in Lucknow, the league will go to Raipur (Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium, Raipur) on November 28, when India will play England.
Eight games total, including the semi-finals and the championship match on December 8th, which will determine the first International Masters League winners, will take place in Raipur.
Famous athletes, all of whom have had remarkable careers, will lead their teams as captains, offering the T20 format their unparalleled expertise and passion of competition. The IML seeks to enthrall spectators with its 18 action-packed matches by fusing nostalgia with exuberant cricket.
The International Masters League captains include: Australia’s Shane Watson, England’s Eoin Morgan, Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara, India’s Sachin Tendulkar, and the West Indies’ Brian Lara
and Jacques Kallis in South Africa
As stated in a news release, cricket legend and League Ambassador Sachin Tendulkar said during the occasion, “I am excited to lead and represent India Masters in the league as the ambassador and face of the IML. Without a doubt, there will be competitive and thrilling activity on the field. The idea of playing the IML in many locations excites every participant. It’s a chance to celebrate the sport that unites us all and motivates the next generation.”
“It’s going to be amazing to step back onto the field with such a talented group of players,” said West Indies skipper Brian Lara. The fans love the fast-paced, competitive, and thrilling structure.”
“The IML brings the best of both worlds—world-class cricketing legends and franchise competition,” said England captain Eoin Morgan. The players’ and spectators’ experiences will be spectacular.”
The captain of South Africa, Jacques Kallis, said, “It’s exciting to get the opportunity to play in such a competitive atmosphere again. Our ability and enthusiasm for the game will be on display at the IML.”
“It’s amazing to see so many legends of the game coming together in one league,” said Australia’s captain Shane Watson. I’m thrilled to take charge of Australia and I aim to provide the supporters with some excellent cricket.”
Kumar Sangakkara, the captain of Sri Lanka, said, “It’s wonderful to play against the best in this format again. Cricket fans will see competitive play and experience some very memorable moments.”
The International Masters League will include players from every nation, said League Commissioner Sunil Gavaskar. For them, it’s a fantastic chance to demonstrate their abilities and prove to the public that they are still very skilled. These individuals have no idea what leisurely living is all about. There will be tight games in an intriguing league. I’m confident everyone who comes to the ground to watch on television will find it to be a worthwhile reward.”
