The official telecast partner of the DP World International League T20 (ILT20), Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) has entered into a partnership with Paytm, Kurkure Playz, Kent RO, and Gulf Oil for the inaugural season which begins today i.e January 13.
This is the broadcaster’s return to sports broadcasting. According to the company, it has primarily hired marketers from these consumer categories for the time being.
“This is a significant milestone for the global cricketing league and testifies to its inherent differentiation in terms of quality of league’s players, 6 franchise brand power and our platform’s massive strength,” the broadcaster said in a statement.
Rahul Johri, President of Zee Business for South Asia, said, “We would like to extend a warm welcome to all our partners. We are delighted with the overwhelming response for the inaugural edition. We are committed to taking this cricketing extravaganza to our global audiences and firmly believe that the league will emerge as one of the biggest and most-popular global cricketing events.”
Mahesh Gupta, Chairman and Managing Director of Kent RO Systems, said, “We are excited to be part of the ILT20 for our brand ‘Kuhl’ fans. We are quite hopeful that the network will put in their best and their experience of sports to make this league a huge success.”
Amit Gheji, Head of Marketing, Gulf Oil India, commented, “We resonate with this league as both entities display a passion for the sport. The company has been a constant supporter of performance sports – be it motorsports or cricket, where we have signed up eminent cricket personalities as our brand ambassadors.”
The broadcasting company debuted its ‘Har Ball Bawaal‘ advertising film, starring actor Shah Rukh Khan. The film explores cricket players’ enthusiasm and aspiration, as well as the fan frenzy that envelops T20 cricket.
The company also joined hands with the rapper Badshah to create the league’s anthem ‘Halla Halla’.
The DP World ILT20 will be aired on ten linear TV channels and streamed on Zee5, the company’s OTT platform. Along with UAE cricketers, the championship will feature 84 international cricketers from around the world, including Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dwayne Bravo, Robin Uthappa, Chris Lynn, Moeen Ali, and many more.
The season opener will be played between Dubai Capitals and Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.