The cricketing world is set to witness an exciting event in 2024, with the launch of the International Masters League (IML T20). Cricket legends from six of the most prominent cricketing nations; India, Australia, South Africa, West Indies, England, and Sri Lanka, will take to the field once again in this highly anticipated T20 tournament.
For fans of the game, the International Masters League promises to deliver a nostalgic experience as cricketing legends who once dominated the sport return to showcase their skills.
Here we will cover everything about this league, including the venue, and the teams taking part.
What is the International Masters League?
The International Masters League is an annual T20 tournament designed to bring retired cricket legends back to the field. It offers a unique platform for players who have long retired from international cricket but remain passionate about the sport. Fans will be able to relive the magic of cricket’s golden era by watching their favorite stars play once more.
The first season of IML is set to kick off in 2024, and it promises to be an unforgettable event for cricket enthusiasts worldwide. The idea behind this league comes from two of cricket’s most iconic figures: Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar.
These legends have partnered with leading sports management companies, including PMG Sports and SPORTFIVE, to bring the league to life. This collaboration has already created a buzz among cricket fans, and many are eagerly awaiting the first edition of the IML.
The Inaugural Season of IML T20
The first season of the IML in 2024 will feature six teams, each representing one of the major cricketing nations. The teams include:
- India
- Australia
- South Africa
- West Indies
- England
- Sri Lanka
This impressive lineup ensures that fans will get to see some of the greatest names in cricket history don their national colors once again.
IML T20 Venue
The tournament will be held across three iconic venues in India:
- Mumbai,
- Lucknow, and
- Raipur.
These cities are no strangers to hosting cricket matches and will serve as the perfect backdrop for this historic event.
The Role of Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar
In addition to their roles as co-creators, Sunil Gavaskar has been appointed as the League Commissioner, while Sachin Tendulkar is expected to take on a leadership role as a player.
Both Gavaskar and Tendulkar have expressed their excitement about the league and the opportunity it presents for both players and fans.
What Sachin Tendulkar Says:
Tendulkar, widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time, has noted that T20 cricket has played a significant role in expanding the popularity of the sport globally. In a statement, he shared his enthusiasm:
“Cricket continues to grow in popularity not just in India, but across the world. In the last decade, T20 cricket has accelerated its adoption and has drawn new fans into the game. There is now a strong desire among fans across ages to re-witness age-old battles in newer formats. The International Masters League is a meeting point of passionate fans and competitive cricketers. I am certain all players participating will get back into the groove and prepare hard.”
Although the players participating in the IML have retired from professional cricket, their competitive spirit remains intact. Tendulkar’s remarks highlight the hunger for high-quality cricket that exists among these legends, despite their age and time away from the game.
“Sportspersons never retire at heart, and the competitive streak within waits for an opportunity to get back on the field,” says Tendulkar.
The IML will be the perfect platform for us to channel that competitive energy once more.
What Sunil Gavaskar Says:
Gavaskar, too, has shared his excitement, stating that the IML will offer fans a chance to reconnect with the legends they have admired for years. His words reflect the sentiment of countless fans who are eager to see their heroes back on the field:
“The International Masters League will bring fans closer to the legends they’ve admired for years, offering another golden chance to watch their heroes LIVE in action. This is more than just a tournament–it’s a celebration of nostalgia, where unforgettable moments of cricketing brilliance will come alive once again.”
Overall, the new cricketing tournament, “IML”, offers cricket lovers a rare opportunity to witness their favorite players return to the sport in a fresh and exciting format. With a host of cricket legends participating, each match promises to be a nostalgic affair, filled with unforgettable moments. For those who grew up watching these players, the IML is more than just a tournament.
With the first season starting in 2024, excitement is building. Whether it’s seeing Tendulkar bat again or Gavaskar leading as Commissioner, this event promises to be a major highlight of the cricket season.
So, keep visiting our website to get the latest updates on this league, and don’t miss out on any action.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the International Masters League (IML T20)?
A. The IML is an annual T20 cricket tournament, featuring retired cricket legends from six major cricket-playing nations: India, Australia, South Africa, West Indies, England, and Sri Lanka. It offers fans a chance to relive iconic moments with their favorite players back on the field.
Q2. When will the first season of IML T20 be held?
A. The inaugural season of the IML is set to take place in the later months of 2024, with matches scheduled across major venues in India, including Mumbai, Lucknow, and Raipur. The dates are not disclosed yet.
Q3. Who are the key figures behind the IML?
A. Cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar are the main faces behind the IML T20. Tendulkar will return as a player, while Gavaskar has been appointed as the League Commissioner.
