Second edition of TNPL to follow IPL format

Following a fair share of controversies in the first edition of the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL), the board has decided to incorporate Integrity officers for all the eight franchises. Last year, three participants reported that they were approached by bookies to fix matches. Thus, as a preventive measure prior to the start of the second season, TNPL appointed the Integrity Officers which will be headed by former BCCI anti-corruption unit chief Ravi Sawani.

Despite having four anti-corruption officials in charge in various venues last year, TNPL CEO Prasanna Kannan said they don’t want to take any chance when it comes to security. Also, a special program on anti-corruption guidelines has been planned for players and officials for all TNPL teams on July 16.

According to Cricbuzz, TNPL CEO Prasanna said, “Last time, we had people reporting such inappropriate approaches. Thus we have decided to have one Integrity Officer per team. They will travel with the team throughout the tournament for practice, promotional events, matches and stay at the same hotels. We don’t want to be sorry after things happen. Rather we want to take preventive action,” said Prasanna.

TNPL to follow IPL format

Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) has decided to revamp the format of the TNPL along the lines of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Unlike last season where the top four teams progressed to the semifinals, the upcoming edition will witness Qualifier 1, Eliminator and Qualifier 2, like the cash-rich IPL.

Also, two franchises have decided to alter their names. Ruby Kanchi Warriors has changed its name to Ruby Trichy Warriors. Madurai Supergiants have followed suit of IPL side Rising Pune Supergiant and removed the ‘s’ from its name and will be known as Madurai Supergiant henceforth.

Lauding the TNPL, veteran Indian bowler Laxmipathy Balaji praised the league for nurturing future stars from the state. He believes that TNPL has become a model for other states to follow suit after the success of the flagship event.