Chandigarh, October 3 : The Indian Cricket League (ICL) today announced a pioneering tie-up with leading eCommerce portal, eBay India (www.eBay.in), for its Season 2. Through this association, ICL introduces a first time opportunity for its cricket fans in the history of Indian sports to bid and win ‘LIVE Cricket Experiences’. As the online auction partner, eBay would power the ICL experience auctions. All proceeds from the auction will go to the charity-Akshaypatra, an NGO responsible for mid-day meals scheme for under-privileged children in India. The special ICL experiences being auctioned on eBay include ‘LIVE’ Cricket Experiences like sharing the commentary box with cricket legends – Tony Greig and Dean Jones, being a part of pre and post match analysis panel, tossing the coin for the semi-final matches and photo-opportunities with legends of the game. Bidders will also have the opportunity to bid and win memorabilia comprising of autograph bats by cricket legends like Kapil Dev, Tony Greig, Dean Jones and Kiran More.
Sharing his views on the eBay partnership, Shariq Patel, Sr. VP-Marketing & Operations said, "Our association with eBay helps us achieve a two-fold strategy. It takes the involvement of the cricket fan to a completely new horizon and at the same time helps us achieve our organization’s social responsibility objective."
Deepa M Thomas, Senior Manager – Pop Culture, eBay India said, "We are delighted to partner with ICL to bring these exciting experiences to cricket fans around India and worldwide as part of our focus on Indian Pop Culture. It is especially heartening that all the proceeds of the auctions will benefit Akshaypatra, a reputed NGO benefiting under-privileged children. "
Cricket lovers in India and worldwide can access the special ICL auctions at www.eBay.in/icl from October 3, 2008 onwards for the entire tournament period, scheduled October 10-November 16, 2008.
The ICL Season 2 begins with a high octane opening ceremony on October 10, 2008 in Hyderabad. The Season 2 will see a total of 41 pulsating matches being played at four international standard stadia in – Hyderabad, Panchkula, Gurgaon & Ahmedabad. ICL promises to make this Season 2 an unforgettable experience for TV viewers, spectators & cricket lovers across the globe.
Meanwhile, India’s Leading Telcom Brand AIRTEL signs up with ICL as a co presenting for ICL Season 2. Manikchand Group is the sponsor for Ahemedabad Rockets team. Continuing its support Manikchand Oxyrich have come on board as ICL Official Water partner.Their association with the ICL is a support to young domestic Indian players who have been provided with an international standard platform, to display their cricketing talent. This support will be a sure step in strengthening domestic cricket in the country.