Picture Credit: X/BCCI
With five Indian Premier League (IPL) titles to their name, one of the most consistent franchises along with Mumbai Indians (MI), Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are now looking in to enter the Women’s Premier League (WPL). According to recent reports, the sports division of India Cements are set to integrate into the Chennai Super Kings Cricket Ltd. (CSKCL).
This move is likely to come into picture with Rupa Gurunath, Director of India Cements and daughter of N Srinivasan, who is set to join the CSKCL board. According to the several reports, Rupa Gurunath is exploring the possibility of CSK entering the WPL, seeing the financial stability of the five-time champions. According to a report citing The Indian Express, with uncertainty over N Srinivasan’s position in the CSK colours owing to his health concerns, Rupa Gurunath is likely to get the franchise into the WPL after taking the helm of India Cements group.
CSK to enter WPL: Reports
It is to be noted that CSK is reportedly the most valuable franchise in the IPL, with a brand valuation of USD 231 million, according to a report published by Houlihan Lokey Inc in June 2024. With CSKCL bringing a lot to the cricketing community, it also plans to establish more training academies for school children and increase revenue through sponsorship and merchandise sales.
In the same report, it is also stated that Indian off-spinner R Ashwin, who has rejoined the India Cements group, will play a pivotal role in the expansion of the CSKCL. The veteran Indian spinner was associated with the company until 2016 and also played for CSK from 2008 till 2015.
