0:
In another exciting development from the national sporting circuit, the All India Chess Federation has announced the inception of the much-awaited Indian Chess League (ICL). The inaugural edition of the league is all set to take place in June 2022, which is going to present lots of opportunities to the young and budding chess players to showcase their talent and potential in front of the whole world.
Just like how leagues like IPL, ISL and PKL have played a huge role in the development of Cricket, Football and Kabaddi respectively, the Indian Chess League is also expected to play a key role in the growth of sport in the country. The inaugural edition of ICL is expected to feature six franchises with the league being played in a double round-robin format.
Other key details about ICL
The event is likely to be conducted in one or two cities, with Delhi and Kolkata likely to host. The budget for each franchise will be set at Rs. 2 crores to pick an 8-member squad from the auction, with each team comprising of 2 Super Grandmasters, 2 Indian GMs, 2 Women GMs and 2 Indian juniors (a boy and a girl).
Notably, the base price of Super GMs will be set at Rs. 30 lakhs. Each franchise will be allowed to have a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 4 foreign players in their squad. “The idea is to not only draw the best players from around the world but also to provide India’s players a formidable platform to sharpen their skills,” said Bharat Singh Chauhan, the secretary of AICF.
It's a dream come true: Vidit Gujrathi
Reflecting on the launch of India's own chess league, India's second-highest rated chess player Vidit Gujrathi said, "It's a dream come true not just for me but all the chess players in the country. It makes me immensely proud to have our own league. Now, we have something to look forward to in the coming year. The younger generation will benefit from watching the top GMs coming and playing here. It will be an invaluable experience,"
The AICF have got Gameplan Sports Private Limited onboard for the organising, promotion and marketing of the league. Some of the top chess players are expected to take part in the league which is also likely to be telecast live on TV. All the other key details around the auction, franchises etc. will be revealed in the coming days.