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: sports
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…
India Off the Grid: Why Formula 1 Is a Test Case for Law, Policy, and Growth, by Ishaan Michael
1. Introduction From 2011 to 2013, India briefly joined the global Formula 1 calendar. The Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida reverberated with the roar of the world’s fastest cars, and for three seasons the Indian Grand Prix put the country on the global motorsport map. Then, as abruptly as it began, the race was…
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…
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…
Lawyering the Playfield: Empowering Grassroots Sports in India, by Ishaan Michael
1. Introduction Sports in India transcend games, serving as a unifying force that brings people together, from the roaring support for the Men in Blue to the spirited cheers for local kabaddi teams. At the heart of these vibrant spectacles lies the grassroots sports—a nurturing ground for future champions and a source of joy, health,…
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…
From Fan Engagement to Fan Outrage: Why BCCI won’t let you share those outstanding cricket plays on social media, by Ishaan Michael
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has recently come under fire for its strict social media guidelines imposed on IPL teams and commentators. These guidelines restrict the posting of pictures and videos from live matches on social media platforms. This blog aims to analyze the legal rationale behind these restrictions. You witness…
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