Sumant Bahl Discusses His Journey into Cricket Ownership and the WCL Experience
A Natural Transition into Cricket Ownership
Sumant Bahl, the owner of India Champions, expressed that his profound love for cricket, combined with his professional background in hospitality and entertainment, motivated him to take on the role of a team owner in the World Championship of Legends (WCL). He described this decision as a seamless transition due to his long-standing connection with the sport. As a qualified umpire with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Bahl stated that his passion for cricket made the choice to own a team an easy one. "Cricket is ingrained in our culture as Indians. Seeking inspiration for cricket feels unnecessary. Our business revolves around hospitality and entertainment, organizing large events, which made this a natural step for me. My role as an ECB-qualified umpire in England further fueled my enthusiasm, so when the opportunity arose, I didn't hesitate," Bahl shared.
Contrasting Cricket Standards: India vs. England
Bahl compared the cricketing standards of India and England, noting that both nations exhibit remarkable levels of play, with playing conditions being a significant factor. He emphasized India's current dominance in world cricket and its widespread fan following. "Both countries showcase exceptional cricket quality. The primary distinction lies in the playing conditions. Currently, the Indian team stands at the pinnacle of global cricket and enjoys far greater popularity than any other team. However, I believe the standards of cricket in both nations are commendable," he remarked.
Managing Cricket Legends: A Misconception Addressed
When discussing the management of former international cricket stars like Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, and Yusuf Pathan in the India Champions squad, Bahl refuted the notion that managing such celebrated players is difficult. He acknowledged initial concerns from the team management, stemming from their experience in organizing large Bollywood events. However, these worries dissipated once the players united during the inaugural season, fostering a friendly and collaborative atmosphere that has persisted into the third season. "Initially, we had some reservations, influenced by our background in Bollywood events. Yet, once the players arrived for the first season, we found them to be easygoing and cooperative. Now, in our third season, managing them has been a pleasure, creating a family-like environment," Bahl explained.
The Distinctive Charm of WCL
Bahl highlighted the unique allure of the WCL, which gathers an impressive lineup of former international stars, allowing them to reconnect with fans in a more personal setting. He noted that despite stepping away from international cricket, players still approach the competition with the same intensity and pride associated with representing their countries. "The WCL's global appeal lies in the extraordinary star power present in each team, unmatched by any other league. It competes with the world's top cricket leagues today, and the competitiveness is unparalleled," he stated.
He added, "Wearing the jersey emblazoned with your country's emblem transforms players into warriors. They step onto the field with a fierce competitive spirit."
Bahl also mentioned that the players' more settled personal lives allow for greater interaction with fans and fellow stars, enriching the match-day experience. The chance to see familiar cricketing figures compete again while engaging closely with them makes the WCL a unique experience compared to traditional international cricket. "The live experience for fans in the stadium is far more intimate and enjoyable than standard national cricket," he concluded.
The India Champions are set to face off against the West Indies Champions on Tuesday in a pivotal WCL 2026 match.