Actor Sanjay Dutt buys franchise in MCL; Rhiti Sports, Everymedia among other buyers
BOLLYWOOD ACTOR Sanjay Dutt has bought a franchise in the UAE-based Masters Champions League (MCL).
Dutt's wife Maanyata, who looks after the actor's business interests, completed the deal in his absence, as the actor continues to serve prison time.
"As a family, we have always been passionate about sport. Sanjay, in particular, has been an avid sports enthusiast since childhood," Maanyata confirmed the move, speaking to the Times of India.
The actor, who is behind bars for his alleged role in the 1993 Bombay blasts, is expected to finish his sentence next year. Until then, talent management company, CAA KWAN, will handle the franchise.
"Like most Indians, we are extremely passionate about cricket and just the thought of owning a team with legends like Sehwag, Lara, Kallis being part of it is tremendously exciting. We are sure MCL is a unique concept and will prove to be a valuable investment," Maanyata added.
This is Dutt's second investment in the field of sports. In 2012, he was part of the Super Fight League along with former Rajasthan Royals co-owner, Raj Kundra.
Other notable names to have invested in the MCL are MS Dhoni's manager and Rhiti Sports owner, Arun Pandey, and digital agency Everymedia. The names of the teams are yet to be revealed.
The MCL is a TGwenty20 league meant for retired international cricketers slated to commence early next year. On Tuesday, recently retired Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag was in Dubai, alongside former South African Graeme Smith, West Indies legend Brian Lara, etc. for the grand launch and gala dinner held for the participating ex-cricketers. MCL CEO Zara Shah hosted the evening that also witnessed the launch of the official MCL anthem composed by composer-duo Sajid-Wajid.
The tournament will consist of six teams and will feature some of the biggest cricketing names such as Kumar Sangakkara, Adam Gilchrist, Wasim Akram, Jacques Kallis, Mahela Jayawardene and more.
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