The Archery Premier League (APL) is witnessing a surge of star power and corporate backing as the Delhi-based franchise, Prithviraj Yodhas, announces two major developments in the opening week of the tournament.
The team has secured Ebix Group, the global software and fintech conglomerate, as its title sponsor, while celebrated actor Randeep Hooda and former national archer Lin Laishram have joined as co-owners and brand ambassadors.
The developments mark a pivotal moment for the inaugural edition of the APL, which seeks to reimagine archery as a spectator-friendly sport in India. Organised by the Archery Association of India (AAI) under the aegis of World Archery and World Archery Asia, the league features six franchises competing over ten days at the Yamuna Sports Complex, New Delhi. The tournament, which commenced on October 2, 2025, brings together India’s top talent alongside international archers.
Speaking on the association, Vikas Garg, Chairman & Managing Director of Vikas Group and Chairman of Ebix Group, said, “At Ebix, we believe sports have the power to inspire, unite, and transform societies. By investing in archery, a discipline deeply rooted in India’s history, we are reinforcing our commitment to celebrate heritage. The Prithviraj Yodhas reflect strength, precision, and resilience, values that embody both Ebix Group and this iconic sport. Through APL, we aim to provide Indian athletes with a platform to showcase their talent while inspiring the next generation.”
Randeep Hooda, co-owner of Prithviraj Yodhas, added, “Owning a team with Lin is incredibly special. Archery has been a big part of her life, and seeing her return to the sport in this way is heartwarming. Together, we want to support these talented athletes and bring archery closer to audiences across India. Leagues help expose young talent to international players and more competition, creating a larger talent pool to represent India internationally and win more competitions.”
Lin Laishram, co-owner of Prithviraj Yodhas, continued, “Archery taught me so much; it gave me discipline, patience, and perseverance. Even though I had to leave competitive archery early, my love for the sport never went away. Now, to come back as a team owner and support young archers is a dream come true. I hope we can inspire more people, especially young girls, to pick up the bow and arrow and experience the joy of this sport.”
Prithviraj Yodhas boasts a formidable lineup of eight athletes, including Matias Grande (World No. 6, Olympian and Pan American Champion), Andrea Becerra (World No. 1, two-time Pan American Champion), and Abhishek Verma (World Archery Championships medallist, four-time Asian Champion, World No. 10), among others.
Backed by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the Archery Premier League aims to modernise how archery is presented to fans through its franchise structure, broadcast partnerships, and celebrity involvement. Organisers hope the league will establish a lasting ecosystem for the sport, encouraging youth participation and grassroots development across India.
With the combination of high-profile ownership, strategic corporate sponsorship, and international participation, the APL’s debut season is poised to mark a defining chapter in the evolution of Indian archery.
