~ Sachin Tendulkar (India), Brian Lara (West Indies), Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka), Shane Watson (Australia), Eoin Morgan (England) & Jacques Kallis (South Africa) to feature as Captains of the six teams
The highly anticipated International Masters League (IML) which will be hosted at the D Y Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai is all set to take the world by storm, bringing together legendary cricketers from six cricketing powerhouses—India, Sri Lanka, Australia, England, South Africa, and West Indies—in a thrilling T20 franchise tournament. The inaugural edition will run from November 17th, 2024, to December 8th, 2024. The tournament kicks off on November 17th with a thrilling encounter between cricketing giants India and Sri Lanka, featuring legends Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara—a nostalgic clash that harkens back to their iconic battles.
Following the India-Sri Lanka opener, cricket fans can look forward to an exciting matchup between Shane Watson’s Australia and Jacques Kallis’ South Africa. The action continues with Sri Lanka facing Eoin Morgan’s England, culminating in a highly-anticipated return of Brian Lara and his West Indies squad, who will challenge Australia in what promises to be an unforgettable contest.
After the initial matches in Navi Mumbai, the tournament shifts to the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on November 21st, where India will take on South Africa in another marquee matchup. Lucknow will host a total of six matches before the league moves to Raipur, where the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium will play host to eight matches, including a pivotal face-off between India and England on November 28th.
The excitement culminates on December 8th, when Raipur will crown the inaugural champions of the International Masters League after a series of thrilling semi-finals. Cricket enthusiasts are in for a month of spectacular matches and unforgettable moments!
Iconic players, all of whom have had illustrious careers, will captain their respective teams, bringing their unmatched experience and competitive spirit to the T20 format. With 18 action-packed matches, the IML promises to captivate audiences, blending nostalgia with high-energy cricket.
Cricket icon and League Ambassador Sachin Tendulkar, Captain of India team said, “As the ambassador and face of the IML, I am looking forward to leading and representing India Masters in the league. The action on the field will no doubt be competitive and exciting. All the players are enthused at the prospect of playing the IML at multiple venues. It’s an opportunity to inspire the next generation while celebrating the sport that we all love.”
Brian Lara, captain of the West Indies team, added, “It’s going to be amazing to step back onto the field with such a talented group of players. The format is fast, exciting, and competitive—just what the fans want.”
England captain Eoin Morgan said, “The IML brings the best of both worlds—cricketing legends and franchise competition. It’s going to be a phenomenal experience for both players and fans.”
Jacques Kallis, South Africa’s captain, said, “The chance to play in such a competitive environment again is thrilling. The IML will showcase not only our talent but also our passion for the game.”
Australia captain Shane Watson said, “It’s incredible to see so many legends of the game coming together in one league. I’m excited to lead Australia and will hopefully deliver some top-notch cricket for the fans.”
Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara added, “Playing against the best once again in this format is special. Fans will get to see competitive cricket and relive some unforgettable moments.”
League Commissioner Sunil Gavaskar said, “Stalwarts from every country will be playing the International Masters League. For them, it is a wonderful opportunity to showcase their skills and show the world that they are still very good. These guys don’t know what it is to take it easy. It is going to be an exciting league, with close contests. I am sure it will be a worth a treat for all those who come to the ground and watch on the television.”
