Mangaluru:“Amaco MPL T20 Mangalore Premier League”, echoed in the alleys of Forum Mall as the theme song and the logo of the much-awaited Mangalore Premier League 2015 was unveiled on Sunday August 2.
The grand event also included the official announcement of the official 12 teams to play in the presence of the esteemed dignitaries associated with the game.
Addressing a large number of audiences, Minister for youth empowerment, sports and fisheries, Abhayachandra Jain said, “Cricket is not just a game but a revolution – from a time when we used to hear commentary on the radio, then television and up until now when we are a part of such a mega event – for me personally cricket has evolved with time”, added Jain.
Remembering his childhood days he said, “My father played cricket even before India’s Independence. In 1924, he used to play with the Mysuru Maharaja later he played with M. Chinnaswamy – today we have a stadium in Bengaluru after his name. As my father was of that league he nurtured me as well in cricket, I am happy to be associated with this game, said Jain who himself is the owner of one of the teams.
MLAJ R Lobo speaking on the occasion said that MPL will take cricket to great heights in the city. “The youth of this city is very enthusiastic about the game and the initiative will help them find better opportunities”, he added.
He further added that the city of Mangaluru is illustrious about its culture, tradition as well as modern technology and education sectors. However, the city desired a much-needed push in terms of sports and Mangalore Premier League fulfill that desire, he said.
MLA Mohiuddin Bava also spoke at the event and encouraged the players present during the event. He said, “India is a country where in every corner of the street we have a deserving cricketer and MPL will open up new avenues for these players to be recognized.”
“They can start with MPL, and then go ahead to KPL and then may be play for IPL”,said Bava who is also the owner of Mangalore United – KPL.
Chairman of Al Muzain, Saudi Arabia Zakariya Jokatte, Convenor of KSCA, Mangaluru Zone Manohar Amin, KRCA president and MPL organiser Mohammed Sirajuddin, Amaco Group of Companies CEO Asif Amaco, Mohammed Sharif of Kushi Group and others were present at the occasion.
Convenor of KRCA and MPL organiser Imthiyaz welcomed the gathering; earlier participants of KPL from Mangaluru were presented with a certificate of appreciation.
The 12 teamsMangalore Premier League are as follows:
United Ullal, owned by Minister for Health and Family Welfare U T Khader
Karavali Warriors owned by Dheeraj
Udupi Tigers owned by Amith S Shetty
Kushi Super Kings owned by Mohammed Sharif
Bedra Bulls owned by Minister for Sports Abhayachandra Jain
Ocean Sharks Kudla owned by Mazhar Nakash
Northern Shine Baikampady owned by Mohammed Zahir
Maestro Titans owned by Canute Fernandes
Royal Mightians Moodbidri owned by Rajesh Chowta
Surathkal Strikers owned by Mohammed Shahid
Coastal Digest Mangalore XI owned by Asif Mohammed
Bajpe Jaguars owned by Sharath Siri