Tiigers of Kolkata Gear Up for ISPL Season 3 with Intense Pre-Season Training
Intensive Pre-Season Training for Tiigers of Kolkata
The former champions of the Indian Street Premier League (ISPL), Tiigers of Kolkata, are preparing for a robust Season 3. They are currently engaged in a rigorous pre-season training program in Mumbai and Surat, which includes match simulations, skill-specific drills, and team-building activities.
Visionary Leadership and Long-Term Goals
Under the ownership of Aksha Kamboj from Aspect Sports, a division of Aspect Global Ventures, Tiigers of Kolkata are committed to a long-term strategy that combines elite training with opportunities for local talent. This season, the franchise is focused on maintaining continuity, defining roles clearly, and assembling a squad that can adapt to various match scenarios.
Aksha Kamboj, Executive Chairperson of Aspect Global Ventures and Owner of Tiigers of Kolkata, stated: "Our goal from the outset has been to create something enduring—anchored in culture, character, and opportunity. We aim to establish a platform where street and tennis-ball cricketers can thrive, develop, and aspire for greater achievements. Season 3 is a crucial milestone in this journey, and the team's preparation and mindset instill confidence in us."
Sourav Ganguly Joins as Co-Owner and Mentor
The franchise's vision is further bolstered by the involvement of Sourav Ganguly, who has taken on the roles of Co-Owner and Mentor for the upcoming ISPL season. As a prominent figure in Indian cricket and a symbol of Kolkata's sports heritage, Ganguly adds leadership, credibility, and a profound understanding of grassroots cricket to the Tiigers' framework.
In his address to the team, Sourav Ganguly remarked: "This league is founded on the same principles that shaped my own path—street cricket, instinct, and determination. The key elements are belief, clarity, and playing freely. Tiigers of Kolkata possess a strong mix of experience and youth, and I wish them the best for Season 3."
A Well-Balanced Squad Ready for Competition
On the field, Tiigers of Kolkata boast a well-rounded team that merges seasoned players with emerging talent. Bhavesh Pawar, the only player retained through all three ISPL seasons, will captain the side, providing stability with his all-round skills and calm demeanor under pressure. He is supported by Saif Ali and Rajat Mundhe, both of whom had impressive previous seasons, alongside Saroj Paramanik's reliable all-round contributions.
In alignment with ISPL's grassroots vision, the franchise has also recruited promising Under-19 players, reinforcing its commitment to providing pathways for street-cricket athletes into professional sports.
Captain Bhavesh Pawar expressed: "The training camps in Mumbai and Surat have been intense and purposeful. We have focused on skills, fitness, and match scenarios, but more importantly, we have united as a team. There is a strong desire within this group, and we are eager to start and give our best from the first game."
Coaching Staff Promotes Fearless Play
The coaching team has been pivotal in the preparations, emphasizing adaptability, role clarity, and a fearless approach to the game—key attributes for success in the T10 format.
Nilesh Kadam, Head Coach of Tiigers of Kolkata, noted: "This group has trained diligently and intelligently. The squad's balance provides us with options across all areas, and the players' attitude has been exceptional. They understand the expectations, and we feel confident as we head into the tournament."
With the ISPL Opening Ceremony set for January 9 and Tiigers of Kolkata scheduled to face Chennai on January 10, the franchise enters Season 3 with renewed focus, strong leadership, and a well-structured team ready for the challenges of T10 cricket. After extensive preparation and clarity in roles, the focus now shifts to executing their plans on the field.