Dharavi Premier League: A Cricketing Revolution in Asia’s Largest Informal Settlement
The cricketing world is abuzz with excitement as the Dharavi Premier League (DPL) takes center stage in Mumbai. This innovative cricket tournament is the brainchild of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project Pvt Ltd (DRPPL), a joint venture between the Government of Maharashtra and the Adani Group, in association with the youth of Dharavi.
Dharavi’s cricketing spirit
The DPL is a first-of-its-kind cricket tournament that brings together the residents of Asia’s largest informal settlement, Dharavi. The tournament is divided into six phases, with the first phase featuring 14 teams and over 200 players from Sector 1. This sector, which represents the very soul of Dharavi, is also the largest both geographically and population-wise, covering areas such as Matunga Labour Camp, Shahu Nagar, Sat Chawl, Valmiki Nagar, and Kamala Nagar, amongst others.
The matches will be played in a 10-over format on a knockout basis at the RPF Ground in Dharavi under floodlights. The tournament will be governed by the ICC rulebook for T20 cricket, including a third empire and an equal number of referrals available to both competing teams.
The 14 teams from Sector 1
The 14 teams from Sector 1 are Thunder Boltz, Strikers, Valmiki Giants, Team Spirit, Vicky Panthers, Matunga Warriors, Young Boyz, Shahunagar Singhams, Hibah Ke Fighters, Meghdoot Blasters, Ashtavinayak Squad, Morya Boyz, Samrat, and Lions Cricket Club.
The matches will be broadcast live on big LED screens and on DPL’s YouTube handle @dharavipremierleague. The DPL is being organised by the people of Dharavi, who will also provide in-match entertainment, music, and food. Apart from the players, the match referees, umpires, and groundsmen are all residents of Dharavi.
The excitement of DPL
There will be cash prizes for the winners and runners-up, and for the man of the match and the player of the series. There will also be spot prizes for the viewers who come to cheer for their favourite teams.
“The DPL is a celebration of the spirit of Dharavi, and we are proud to be a part of it,” said a spokesperson for the DRPPL.
The DPL is a testament to the power of cricket to bring people together and create a sense of community. As the tournament unfolds, it will be exciting to see the talent and passion of the players from Dharavi on full display.
The thrill of victory
The DPL is a cricketing revolution that is set to change the face of cricket in India. With its unique format and community-driven approach, it is an initiative that is sure to inspire and delight cricket fans across the country.
