INDORE: The third edition of the Madhya Pradesh Premier League (MPL) will commence in Indore on Tuesday, with the city hosting the tournament for the first time since its inception.
The T20 competition, which has emerged as an important platform for cricketers from the State, will begin with a match between Gwalior Cheetas and Ujjain Falcons at 7.30 p.m. Organisers have scheduled two to three matches a day from June 4 onwards.
The player auction ahead of the tournament drew attention after several cricketers with Indian Premier League (IPL) experience attracted relatively modest bids, while some younger players emerged as sought-after picks.
Fast bowler Avesh Khan was acquired by Chambal Ghariyals for Rs 8.20 lakh. Batter Ashutosh Sharma, currently associated with Delhi Capitals in the IPL, emerged as the most expensive player at the auction after being signed by Malwa Stallions for Rs 15 lakh.
Ten teams will compete in this year’s tournament Indore Pink Panthers, Bhopal Leopards, Bundelkhand Bulls, Chambal Ghariyals, Gwalior Cheetas, Jabalpur Royal Lions, Rewa Jaguars, Malwa Stallions, Ujjain Falcons and Royal Nimar Eagles.
Among the prominent players expected to feature are Rajat Patidar, Avesh Khan, Arshad Khan, Aniket Verma, Madhav Tiwari, Kumar Kartikeya, Kulwant Khejroliya, Soumya Pandey, Shivang Kumar, Ashutosh Sharma, Rishabh Chauhan and Sagar Solanki.
The growing stature of cricket in Madhya Pradesh is reflected in the increasing number of players from the State making their mark at the national level. This season, 11 cricketers from Madhya Pradesh were part of various IPL franchises.
Ahead of the tournament, Rajat Patidar said returning to play in Madhya Pradesh was always special and described the MPL as a valuable platform for aspiring cricketers. He added that Gwalior Cheetas would be aiming to secure the title this season.
With a blend of established performers and emerging talent, the tournament is expected to provide another opportunity for players from the State to showcase their abilities in a competitive environment.
