What’s the story?
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is all set to welcome the most iconic teams in the Indian Premier League back into the league. The two franchises, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals will be welcomed back on the same day the BCCI releases the ‘Invitation To Tender’ IIT for media rights regarding the 2017 edition of the IPL.
Being the oldest teams, they are expected to have a grand initiation.
In case you didn’t know...
The two-time champions, Chennai Super Kings and the season 1 winners, Rajasthan Royals were suspended for two years by the Supreme Court. The two teams missed the tournament for two years (2016 and 2017) due to their involvement in a spot-fixing scandal.
After the suspension, two new teams, Rising Pune Supergiant and Gujarat Lions, made their appearance in the league. The players of the suspended teams were auctioned to the rest of the teams.
The heart of the matter
Reports state that Chennai Super Kings are planning on having a grand entry to the league and are currently planning an event which will be themed around their massive fan base. The former Indian skipper, MS Dhoni, who is a part of RPS for the 10th season will also reportedly join the Chennai franchise again.
Meanwhile, Rajasthan are already in talks with a leading corporate that already has a stake in the league. This means that the Royals might return to the tournament with new co-owners. The corporate in question is willing to extend its stay in the IPL and hence is involving itself in the discussion with the management.
What’s next?
After eight successful years in the tournament, the two teams are expected to make a comeback in the year 2018. It is rumoured that the Royals will have a new name in the next edition of the IPL.
Author’s Take
Fans of both franchises will be delighted to have the sides back. CSK, who were arguably the most successful team in the tournament, were especially missed in the last two seasons and if Dhoni indeed returns to the helm, will be a force to be reckoned with yet again.
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