Big Cricket League’s inaugural season attracts global audience

The inaugural season of the Big Cricket League (BCL) made a strong debut, recording a live viewership of 16.1 million across television and digital platforms over 10 match days and 18 T20 matches. Broadcast on Sony TV, Sony LIV, and FanCode, the league featured six teams and brought together cricket legends such as Irfan Pathan, Suresh Raina, Shikhar Dhawan, Yusuf Pathan, Herschelle Gibbs, Imran Tahir, and Tillakaratne Dilshan.

Beyond live broadcasts, BCL made a significant impact across digital, print, and social media platforms, reaching over 200 million people globally. The tournament, positioned as a unique blend of seasoned professionals and emerging talent, featured 48 former international and first-class cricketers alongside 60 amateur players who earned their spots through nationwide trials in India.

Mumbai Marines emerged as the champions in the first edition, led by former India pacer Irfan Pathan and owned by Supreme Court lawyer Sana Raees Khan. The league also served as a platform for amateur cricketers to gain nationwide recognition, with several making their mark against seasoned international players.

Dilip Vengsarkar, Commissioner of BCL, highlighted the league’s mission to provide opportunities for cricketers who never had the chance to compete at the highest level. “The cricket was fantastic, the talent on display was exceptional, and the viewership numbers are a testament to the hard work put in by the team,” he said.

Rudra Pratap Singh, Founder and President of BCL, expressed satisfaction with the response. “We are delighted with the global reach of the inaugural season. The level of competition was outstanding, with amateur cricketers holding their own against international veterans.”

Annirudh Chauhan, Co-founder and CEO of BCL, noted the league’s distinct appeal. “The viewership numbers validate the uniqueness of our concept. The support from brands, sponsors, and broadcast partners motivates us to make Season 2 even bigger.”

The BCL is a professional T20 cricket tournament designed to bring together top cricketing talent from around the world. Inspired by the success of leagues such as the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Big Bash League (BBL), the BCL aims to revolutionize the sport with high-energy matches, international star players, and a vibrant fan experience.

The league features multiple franchise teams, each representing a major city or region. These teams are owned by a mix of corporate entities, celebrities, and cricketing legends, adding to the tournament's appeal. The BCL also follows a player auction or draft system, ensuring competitive squads with a blend of experienced international cricketers and emerging local talent.

Known for its entertainment-driven approach, the BCL incorporates music, celebrity endorsements, and innovative broadcasting techniques to engage fans. The league also focuses on grassroots development, providing young cricketers with opportunities to showcase their skills on a global stage.

With its fast-paced format, dynamic gameplay, and widespread media coverage, the Big Cricket League has quickly gained popularity among cricket enthusiasts. 

Looking ahead, registrations for BCL Season 2 have already begun, with trials set to start in March 2025. Organizers anticipate an even stronger lineup, with more international cricketers expected to participate in the league’s second season.