IPL 2020: IPL franchises focused on expanding fan base outside India

The Indian Premier League (IPL) fever could hit the overseas fans after the IPL franchises have shown their interest to play friendly games with local teams in overseas. According to a story published by a leading media daily, the franchises are aiming to improve their fan base away from India and also want to increase their popularity.

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The proposal will be tabled at the BCCI AGM at the end of this month for approval. If the proposal is accepted then this will be for the first time in 12 years since the tournament began that there is a possibility of India's domestic cricket going international. 

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It has also been reported that Mumbai Indians, Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad have already shown their interest while Delhi Capitals are also happy to be part of the event.

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Teams interested in playing practice matches overseas

Mumbai Indians had proposed the idea of playing friendlies to promote brand IPL and the game in the US and also to develop a new market for the game. The team would have headed to the US and also play a few games with local teams to attract cricket lovers in the region and get them up close and personal with their favourite stars.

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Another IPL side KKR can get a chance to visit the West Indies and play a match against the Trinbago Knight Riders which also owned by their current owner. In the same way, Chennai Super Kings could get a chance to build their international fanbase in Singapore where they can find Tamilian people. Sunrisers Hyderabad can build a fanbase in the Silicon Valley.

International cricketers might find it a little difficult to play these type of matches but the franchise will be happy to give domestic cricketers to showcase their talent. The franchises believe that this ide will give overseas fans to connect to the cities back home.

It would be interesting to see whether the new initiative gets the green signal from the board or not.