New Delhi, Aug 28 (IANS) – Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) president Rohan Jaitley has hailed the growing number of T20 leagues across India, calling them valuable platforms to unearth and develop new talent rather than competitors to each other.
“These leagues are feeders for their own ecosystems, not rivals,” Jaitley said. “Each state has its own structure and talent pool. More leagues mean more opportunities for players, which is great for Indian cricket as a whole.”
Reflecting on the second edition of the Delhi Premier League (DPL), Jaitley highlighted its evolution in scale, organisation, and quality since its debut season. He noted that the competition has not only elevated on-field performances but also bolstered the overall cricketing framework for both men and women in the capital.
“As administrators, we aim to raise the bar each year — better planning, better execution,” he said. “This season, the league is far more professional and structured. Teams are sharper, management is stronger, and the ecosystem is more robust. Records may not fall every year — you might not always see six sixes in an over — but consistency and scale are what count.”
According to Jaitley, the league has had a positive impact on players’ fitness and readiness. “There’s no downside. Players are fitter, more dedicated, and in game mode well before the domestic season, thanks to fitness camps and regular matches,” he added.
This season, two new teams joined the DPL. Jaitley praised the new franchise owners for bringing professionalism and energy, seamlessly integrating with the existing setup. “It’s heartening to see more players getting chances, which only strengthens the league,” he said.
He also underscored the importance of the tournament’s broadcast reach. “Having the league on Star Sports is a huge differentiator. While many competitions are confined to digital platforms, television offers unmatched visibility and adds significant value for players and fans alike,” Jaitley noted.
