After Chinese mobile giants, VIVO were excluded as title sponsors for the upcoming Indian Premier League season in the UAE, problems don’t seem to stop for the Cricket Control Board in India (BCCI), which is desperately looking for a replacement with 41 days left.
Calls are now being made to remove sponsors with Chinese links. RSS affiliate Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM) wants BCCI to remove IPL Central sponsors and Indian cricket sponsors such as PayTM, Dream11, Byju’s, and others funded by Chinese companies.
SJM has already started a “Get Out of China” movement and would protest against IPL sponsors with any Chinese connection.
According to an Outlook India report, Dhananjay Bhide, a senior Manch official, said the campaign is focused on adding strength to the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” movement.
“Cricket has to choose between a self-sufficient India and sponsors with Chinese money,” Bhide said.
“Our campaign against BCCI will now gain momentum. The players wear the tricolor on their helmets and represent India on the international stage. How can they so easily ignore the movement against Chinese companies in India? “Bhide added.
Sponsors like PayTM, Dream11, Byju receive Chinese funding and that’s what SJM has to stop feeling.
Meanwhile, IPL will start from September 19 and the final will be played on November 10. Three venues in the United Arab Emirates will be used for a total of 60 matches and most franchisees are already feeling the pinch as the tournament approaches.
She is a freelance blogger, writer, and speaker, and writes for various entertainment magazines.