IPL 2018: Netflix enters in the IPL after a deal with Mumbai Indians

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has grown in popularity ever since its inception in 2008. Now, a decade later as the tournament enters in the 11th season, the success of it has been soaring higher than ever. Some of the world’s biggest companies wanted to buy the IPL rights when they fought with the eventual winner Star TV. The likes of Facebook and Amazon were in the race to buy the broadcast rights.

Star had agreed to pay a massive amount of Rs 16,348 for the 5-year IPL rights as a part of the deal with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Netflix, the online streaming, and the video-on-demand provider have decided to enter the fray in the IPL. Netflix has struck a deal with one of the IPL franchise Mumbai Indians where they will cover and stream MI’s IPL journey as the tournament progresses. The 8-episode documentary series will be aired on the Netflix which will cover on-field and off-field course of the side.

Netflix has a massive audience in the United States. Their involvement will mean that cricket will be served to the American people as well who are yet to understand the game completely.

Mumbai Indians: IPL’s most successful side

Mumbai have won the tournament thrice which makes them the most successful team in the tournament. Indian opener Rohit Sharma led the side to win the trophy last year where they beat Steve Smith-led Rising Pune Supergiant. Mumbai won the title in 2013 and 2015 as well.

The 11th season of the tournament will witness the return of Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals who were banned by the Supreme Court after their owners were found guilty of betting. CSK will mark the return of MS Dhoni as the skipper while Steve Smith is going to lead the Royals.

The tournament begins at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai where the hosts will take on the CSK. With companies like Netflix taking interest in the IPL, the tournament looks like is going to get even bigger and better in the coming seasons.

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