Delhi Daredevils meets Working Group, stresses on eight-team format

DELHI DAREDEVILS OWNER Kiran Grandhi today met the IPL working group and stressed that an eight-team format is a must for the commercial viability of the lucrative league. 

Royal Challengers Bangalore owner Vijay Mallya also joined the discussions later via video conference from London. 

It was learnt that Grandhi, son of GM Rao and owner of Delhi Daredevils, along with GMR Sports top official Sunil Valson, stressed on revenue aspect associated with the eight-team format. 

"Since the owners' opinion were sought DD representatives said that they want an eight team format as less than that would affect the revenues of all franchises. Six teams is not solution as revenues would take a hit," an official privy to today's discussion told newswire PTI on conditions of anonymity. 

"They said how BCCI manages eight or later 10 teams is their call but economics of the decision should be kept in mind. Actually all owners' opinion will be sought as to whether you need to float tenders for new teams or adopt teams," the official added. 

There was no discussions on Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) players though in today's meeting. 

It was also learnt that DD owners have said that restoring the credibility of the league among stakeholders, especially sponsors is paramount. 

Today's meeting was attended in person by IPL chairman Rajeev Shukla and treasurer Aniruddh Chaudhary. BCCI secretary Anurag Thakur was busy due to political commitments. 

The next meeting will be held in Mumbai, on Saturday which will be attended by Mumbai Indians and Kings XI Punjab owners. 

The day long meeting is expected to be held at Taj Lands End.