Lalit Modi Discusses Rupert Murdoch's Role in CLT20 Cancellation

Lalit Modi's Claims About Rupert Murdoch

Lalit Modi, the former Commissioner of the Indian Premier League (IPL), has stated that media tycoon Rupert Murdoch became his 'second-biggest enemy' following the cancellation of the Champions League Twenty20 (CLT20) due to the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.

In an interview conducted in London, Modi recounted the challenging aftermath of the November 26, 2008, attacks, which led to the cancellation of the inaugural CLT20 tournament that was set to occur in December of that year.

"Rupert Murdoch became my second-biggest enemy because I had sold the CLT20 rights to him, and that story has been shared before," Modi remarked.

Impact of the 2008 Terror Attacks

The first CLT20 was initially scheduled for December 3 to 10, 2008. However, due to the terrorist attacks in Mumbai, the event was postponed and ultimately canceled when organizers could not find an appropriate alternative date. The tournament finally launched in September 2009.

Contractual Obligations and Financial Consequences

Modi asserted that despite the cancellation, broadcasters were still bound by their contracts. "I canceled the Champions League in 2008, which cost them hundreds of millions of dollars. However, they were still required to pay us because the contract becomes active as soon as the team arrives. Rupert attempted to persuade me to cancel the contract even after I left, offering me hundreds of millions to do so. I accepted the money, but it made me another enemy," he explained.

Challenges Faced by Modi

Reflecting on his experiences in cricket administration, Modi noted that he faced numerous powerful adversaries, making it difficult to continue his fight. "When you have such formidable enemies, it's hard to keep battling. Sometimes, you just have to step back and let things unfold," he stated.

The CLT20's Journey and Modi's Ban

Murdoch's media conglomerate was significantly involved with the CLT20 through ESPN STAR Sports, which held the global commercial, marketing, and broadcasting rights for the tournament under a long-term agreement.

The CLT20 was intended to be cricket's answer to football's UEFA Champions League, featuring top domestic T20 franchises worldwide. Despite substantial financial support, the tournament struggled to maintain viewership outside of India and was ultimately discontinued by the BCCI in 2015.

Currently, Lalit Modi is serving a lifetime ban imposed by the BCCI due to findings of misconduct, indiscipline, and financial irregularities during the early years of the IPL.