Harsh Neotia shares his expectations on the success of Indian Super League

Harshvardhan Neotia, co-owner of Kolkata team of Indian Super League (ISL) has stated that only after the first season of the league the authorities will be in a position to analyse their financial investment. But he is also stressing a lot on the quality of the game which is one of the crucial factors in order to have a successful league in India. Neotia could not be specific whether ISL is a money-spinning venture as of now but he is expecting it to break it even only after few seasons are past. There is a possible of revenue opportunities which will depend on the kind of sponsorship the league is getting. As he mentioned, “I think it requires at least one season to go to some ball park number.”

The business tycoon further elucidated that with the corporate involvement the Indian Super League (ISL) has a very interesting format. The upcoming tournament is expected to generate a craze as that of Indian Premier League (IPL). The authorities and the franchisees are trying to effect equal standard of quality in the sport involving the best players of the world. Even so with a dazzling packaging, the quality of the game is considered to be of primary importance. Unless, the quality of the game is high it can never build a successful league. Neotia is positive that India will produce great players in my opinion in the next 5 – 10 years who will be delivering high quality game.

Despite all the marketing, celebrity involvement and jazz, it is the product that counts as the businessman believes it’s the Quality that sustains. People are only going to throng to see some great kicks and techniques, but keeping in tune with the modern comfort, the packaging is also kept in mind, as he called it “Icing on the cake”.

All India Football Federation (AIFF), with Praful Patel contributions, is putting their best effort in selecting the top players with high potential and ability. Best practices are also being introduced in the teams as the ISL strikes up a strategic partnership with the much revered English Premier League (EPL).

This partnership has been much appreciated by AIFF President Praful Patel as he thinks that it would be a great platform to introduce an innovative angle in the game and also creating a definite commercial aspect. The players are not only trained in the most organised and modernised methods, but AIFF is also being instrumental in developing a strong infrastructural edifice which will aid the players to refine their skills and techniques. The developmental proceedings will also prove fruitful as AIFF will setting up a grand stage to host Under – 17 FIFA World Cup in 2017.