Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 9 (FN Bureau) The Kerala Cricket Association (KCA) unveiled the official logo of the Kerala Cricket League (KCL) in a ceremony held here on Friday. The logo was launched by international cricketer and KCL icon, Sanju Samson, in the presence of team franchises participating in the league. The event also showcased the logos of the individual franchises, marking a significant milestone in the build-up to the much-anticipated league. The Kerala Cricket League player auction is scheduled for August 10, 2024, starting at 10 AM. Renowned commentator Charu Sharma briefed the franchises, and a mock auction was held to familiarize them with the process. The Kerala Cricket League matches will take place at the prestigious Sports Hub, Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram, from September 2 to 19. Fans can look forward to two thrilling games each day, including day and night matches. The league will officially be launched by the legendary actor and KCL brand ambassador, Mohanlal, on 31st August 2024, at noon at Hyatt Regency. A total of 168 players have been shortlisted for the player auction, with each franchise set to acquire 20 players.
The auction will be divided into three categories: Category A: Featuring players with IPL and Ranji Trophy experience, with a base salary of Rs. 2 lakh. Category B: Comprising CK Naidu, U-23, U-19 State, and U-19 Challengers players, with a base salary of Rs. 1 lakh. Category C: For U-16 state players, university players, and club cricketers, with a base salary of Rs 50,000. Each player will be auctioned to the highest bidder, with the auction being broadcast live on Star Sports Three and the OTT platform Fancode. Icon players already selected for the league include P.A. Abdul Basit (Trivandrum Royals), Sachin Baby (Kollam Sailors), Mohammad Azharuddin (Alleppey Ripples), Basil Thambi (Kochi Blue Tigers), Vishnu Vinod (Thrissur Titans), Rohan S Kunnammal (Calicut Globestars). In a generous gesture, the Kerala Cricket Association announced a donation of one crore rupees to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund to aid those affected by the Wayanad disaster. The association is also mobilizing support from prominent figures in the cricket community to provide additional assistance. The logo unveiling event was graced by several dignitaries, including Kerala Cricket Association President Jayesh George, Secretary Vinod S. Kumar, Treasurer K.M. Abdul Rahiman, Kerala Cricket League Chairman Nazir Machan, Governing Council Member P.J. Nawaz, and KCA CFO and Interim CEO Minu Chidambaram.