Ganguly begins new chapter in grassroots cricket with ISPL role
Sourav Ganguly, one of Indian cricket’s most influential leaders, has officially joined the Tiigers of Kolkata as co-owner and mentor ahead of Season 3 of the Indian Street Premier League (ISPL). The tournament, built around the high-octane T10 tennis-ball format rooted in gully cricket, is scheduled to be held at Lalabhai Contractor Stadium in Surat from January 9 to February 6, 2026.
The appointment, announced via a press release, marks a significant move that merges Ganguly’s legacy with a platform designed to nurture street-level talent. His dual role places him not only in the team’s ownership group but also at the core of mentoring and shaping young players emerging from non-traditional cricketing pathways.
A clear focus on nurturing instinct and discipline
Ganguly’s statement underscored his alignment with the league’s grassroots ambitions and the cultural connection tennis-ball cricket holds in his hometown.
“I’m excited to begin this new journey with Aspect Sports and Tiigers of Kolkata as a co-owner and mentor. Tennis-ball cricket has always been close to the roots of the game. That foundation is especially strong in the East and across Kolkata. My focus will be on helping these players shape their natural instincts into match-winning habits, while creating a clear pathway for growth. Development needs clarity, trust, and patience, and I’m glad to be part of a setup that values all three,” Ganguly said in a press release.
Known for reshaping Indian cricket with clarity, fearlessness, and conviction during his captaincy, Ganguly now brings those same qualities to the ISPL stage — where the emphasis is on opportunity, raw ability, and structured development.
A move that strengthens Tiigers’ long-term vision
Aksha Kamboj, Executive Chairperson of Aspect Global Ventures and Co-Owner of Tiigers of Kolkata, called Ganguly’s involvement a landmark moment for the franchise’s evolution.
“Our vision for Tiigers of Kolkata has always been to grow cricket across the country, with a strong focus on the East and its deep pool of raw talent. Having Sourav Ganguly join us as a co-owner is incredibly special. He is a living legend of Indian cricket and someone who understands grassroots development better than most. His belief in backing players early and building strong foundations aligns completely with our long-term vision, and his presence gives Tiigers both credibility and direction as we build for the future,” she said in a press release.
Ganguly’s association not only strengthens the team’s credibility but brings to the forefront a leadership style that has always been rooted in backing potential — particularly from overlooked or under-resourced communities.
ISPL sees Ganguly’s presence as ecosystem-defining
For the Indian Street Premier League as a whole, Ganguly’s inclusion elevates the tournament’s standing and commitment to structured grassroots development.
Suraj Samat, League Commissioner of the ISPL, said in a press release:
“Sourav Ganguly’s association with the Tiigers of Kolkata franchise at the Indian Street Premier League adds immense value to the ecosystem we are building. His journey as a player, captain, and leader has always been about strengthening structures and trusting talent at the grassroots. As ISPL continues to grow as a platform for street and tennis-ball cricketers, his involvement with the team elevates both the league’s credibility and its long-term vision.”
Ganguly’s legacy — which includes more than 11,000 ODI runs, a reputation for bold leadership, and an unmatched off-side elegance — is now aligned with a format and platform that reflects his own cricketing beginnings.
Tiigers’ Season 3 squad reflects balance and ambition
Backed by Ganguly’s presence, the Tiigers of Kolkata have assembled a squad that combines experience with youthful energy. Key players include Bhavesh Pawar, seasoned all-rounder and core member, along with Saif Ali, the franchise’s highest signing at ₹23.65 lakh (approx. US$ 26.3k). Other notable contributors like Saroj Pramanik, Rajat Mundhe, and rising U-19 talents Himanshu Patil and Ankit Yadav complete a well-rounded lineup.
With a mentor who understands both pressure and promise, Tiigers of Kolkata are set to enter ISPL Season 3 with a clear identity — one built on belief, structure, and the raw energy of Indian street cricket.
