In a revolutionary development, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are on the verge of making a full entry into the Women’s Premier League (WPL). Following the acquisition of N Srinivasan’s India Cements by UltraTech Cement, without CSK being part of the deal, the IPL franchise is reportedly looking to expand into the Women’s Premier League (WPL).
The buzz surrounding CSK’s possible takeover of the WPL franchise has intensified with the impending appointment of Rupa Gurunath, the daughter of N Srinivasan, on the board of directors of Chennai Super Kings Cricket Limited (CSKCL). Known for her ambitious vision and strategic acumen, Gurunath is expected to play a pivotal role in the investment plan in women’s cricket.
Chennai Super Kings are keen to grab the WPL franchise
According to the Economic Times, a CSK executive revealed that the franchise is currently evaluating the financial viability of owning a WPL franchise, and crucial decisions and strategies are reportedly being made. The executive also mentioned that the CSK team is evaluating the experiences of the other five franchises in the WPL 2024 before making a final decision.
A CSK executive told the Economic Times: “CSK is currently studying the financial viability and experience of the other five IPL franchises that participated last year.”
Meanwhile, Rupa Gurunath will soon join the CSKCL board of directors, bringing with her an ambitious vision for the future. Gurunath’s plans are said to include expanding the number of coaching centres for schoolchildren, enhancing fan engagement activities and increasing revenues through increased sponsorship and merchandise sales.
Well, CSK is no longer a part of India Cements since 2015. Even after the acquisition of UltraTech Cement, it is clear that the company will not have any influence or control over CSK. Even CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan made it clear that CSK is run solely by CSKCL and reconfirmed that the IPL team and India Cements are different entities.
Speaking to Cricbuzz, Kasi Viswanathan said, “Chennai Super Kings and India Cements are different entities. India Cements no longer controls the CSK team. The team is run by a company called Chennai Super Kings Cricket Limited (CSKCL).”
History of India Cements and CSK
It is noteworthy that India Cements acquired CSK when the IPL started in 2008. However, in 2015, the team was transferred to CSKCL, a different entity. Former India and CSK captain MS Dhoni serves as one of the vice-chairmen of India Cements.
Srinivasan, former BCCI President, Vice President and Managing Director of India Cements, along with his family, are the principal promoters of CSKCL. According to the company’s 2023 annual report, they hold a 28.14% stake and will continue to own the IPL team.
Apart from its involvement with CSK in the IPL, India Cements has been a major supporter of cricket in Chennai by backing several TNCA league clubs across different divisions. The company employs several former first-class and international cricketers and manages three prominent teams in the Premier Division – Vijay CC, Grand Slam CC and UFCC (T. Nagar).
