The events surrounding Lionel Messi’s appearance in Kolkata quickly became a national talking point. For many, the reaction centred on disappointment, anger, or blame. But framing this episode as a failure tied to one individual or one evening misses the point entirely. This was never about Messi. What unfolded was a reminder of a deeper,…
Tag: INDIA
India 2030 Commonwealth Games: Beyond the Opening Ceremony, by Ishaan Michael
India securing the hosting rights for the 2030 Commonwealth Games is a moment that’s hard not to celebrate. It’s the kind of headline that lifts the national mood instantly which is a signal that India has arrived, that we can build, organize, and showcase a world-class sporting event on a global stage. But beneath the…
Opening the Doors: Why India’s Sports Policy Must Include OCI Athletes, by Ishaan Michael
India is considering allowing Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) to represent the country in sports. This move could transform Indian athletics, football, and more if backed by legal reform and transparent governance. 1. Introduction: A Policy Shift with National Impact India might finally be rethinking who gets to represent the nation in international sport. The…
Pitch Perfect? Crafting a Policy Framework for IPL Home Advantage, by Ishaan Michael
1. Introduction The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season has barely begun, yet it’s already embroiled in a heated controversy over pitch preparation. Kolkata Knight Riders’ head coach Chandrakant Pandit, Chennai Super Kings’ Stephen Fleming, and Lucknow Super Giants’ mentor Zaheer Khan have voiced their frustration over a glaring issue: home teams have little to…
One Sport, Many Federations, No Wins: India’s Governance Gridlock, by Ishaan Michael
1. Introduction In 2012, Indian boxers were caught in a tug-of-war between two federations—neither recognized internationally—leaving athletes in limbo. This wasn’t an isolated crisis; it’s a symptom of a fractured sports ecosystem plaguing India across disciplines like boxing, archery, and table tennis. Rival federations, each claiming legitimacy, spawn a tangle of legal disputes, governance failures,…
The Argument for Regulation in Franchise Cricket: Protecting Players and the Game’s Future, by Bernedene Dsouza
Franchise cricket has emerged as a key element of contemporary cricket, captivating audiences and offering athletes lucrative prospects. From the Indian Premier League (IPL) to the Big Bash League (BBL) and the expanding Legends League, franchise cricket has significantly enhanced the sport’s commercial and entertainment appeal. It has opened doors to previously unexplored markets, provided…
Should BCCI be exempted from paying taxes?, by Samay Jain
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has long enjoyed a controversial status regarding its tax obligations. As one of the wealthiest sports organizations globally, it has claimed tax exemptions under the premise of promoting cricket as a charitable activity. However, recent developments and discussions surrounding this issue suggest that the BCCI should…
Leveling the Playing Field: How Competition Law Can Transform the IPL, by Ishaan Michael
Introduction The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has long been a dominant force in Indian cricket, particularly with its control over the Indian Premier League (IPL). This dominance has raised questions about its compliance with competition laws, especially when viewed through the lens of the Bosman ruling, which revolutionized player transfers in…
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