The Indian Softball Cricket League (ISCL) is gearing up for its second season with renewed enthusiasm, bringing greater attention to emerging cricketing talent from neighbourhoods and local communities. Adding star power to the league’s preparations, former Sri Lankan captain and legendary all-rounder Sanath Jayasuriya attended a grand ceremony in Mumbai, where he unveiled the official jerseys of two franchises, Mumbai Royals and Maharashtra Super Strikers.
The event brought together prominent personalities from cricket, entertainment, corporate affairs and public life. The jersey launch marked an important step towards building excitement for the upcoming season, with both franchises looking to establish their identities and strengthen their connection with cricket enthusiasts.
Speaking at the ceremony, Jayasuriya highlighted India’s deep-rooted passion for cricket and the opportunities that emerging formats such as softball cricket can create for aspiring players. He said that India has extraordinary cricketing enthusiasm and that platforms like ISCL can help talented individuals showcase their abilities, particularly those who may not have access to established clubs or bigger competitive platforms. He also extended his best wishes to both franchises for the upcoming season.
The presence of the former Sri Lankan captain further energised the gathering, reinforcing ISCL’s vision of taking cricket beyond traditional sporting platforms. The league aims to identify promising players from streets, neighbourhoods and smaller communities, providing them with structured opportunities to compete and develop their skills. Its objective is to ensure that talent is not restricted by geographical boundaries, financial resources or limited access to established cricketing systems.
Strengthening its national appeal, ISCL has also brought former Indian cricketers Suresh Raina and Harbhajan Singh on board as brand ambassadors. The league has added further star appeal through its association with beauty pageant personalities. Miss India World 2026 Sadhvi Sail represents Mumbai Royals as its brand ambassador, while Miss India Universe 2026 Manika Vishwakarma is associated with Maharashtra Super Strikers.
The ceremony was led by ISCL Founder and President Dr. Gangadhar Raju and Chairman B. H. Anil Kumar. Former Jalgaon Mayor Lalit Kolhe also attended as a distinguished guest.
Speaking about the significance of the jersey unveiling, ISCL Chairman B. H. Anil Kumar said that the launch represents an important milestone in the league’s journey towards its second season. He emphasised the organisation’s commitment to building a sustainable softball cricket ecosystem through dedicated franchises, structured opportunities and the overall development of players.
ISCL Founder and President Dr. Gangadhar Raju reiterated that the league’s primary objective is to discover hidden cricketing talent from local communities and provide players with a recognised competitive platform. He expressed confidence that the combined efforts of franchise owners and associated organisations would help ISCL establish a distinct identity among players and cricket followers.
Mumbai Royals owner Girish Gowda described the occasion as a proud moment for the franchise. He said the team aims to represent Mumbai’s rich cricketing culture, energy and fighting spirit while encouraging players to perform with confidence.
Meanwhile, Maharashtra Super Strikers owner Saurabh Dhanuka highlighted the franchise’s commitment to representing Maharashtra’s sporting enthusiasm. He said the team aims to build a strong relationship with its players and supporters while bringing pride to the state.
With the second season approaching, the jersey launch has added momentum to ISCL’s preparations. The league now looks to turn its vision of discovering grassroots cricketing talent into opportunities for aspiring players across the country.
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