Royal Challengers Bangalore get crowned Best ‘Sports Franchise of the Year’ by CII for sports excellence

During the inaugural CII Sports Business Awards 2023, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) emerged victorious, securing the prestigious “Sports Franchise of the Year” accolade. The event, organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) for Sports Excellence, celebrated outstanding contributions to the sports industry, with the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) and notable individuals receiving accolades for their commendable efforts.

RCB’s triumph in the “Sports Franchise of the Year” category added another feather to their cap. The franchise’s recent notable move involved a significant trade with the Mumbai Indians, acquiring star all-rounder Cameron Green in exchange for Hardik Pandya. This unexpected development has added depth to RCB’s squad as they prepare for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 auction scheduled for December 19.

Looking ahead, RCB is poised to make strategic moves in the auction, eyeing players who showcased exceptional skills in the recently concluded ODI World Cup 2023. Travis Head and Rachin Ravindra, particularly impressive in the tournament, are on RCB’s radar. With a focus on strengthening their top-order with a quality left-handed batter, RCB aims to build a formidable team for the upcoming IPL season.

Jay Shah won the ‘Best Sports Business Leader’ award

Coming back to the awards, Bhubaneswar-based KIIT garnered the “Best Sports Facility” award, a testament to its commitment to providing top-notch sports infrastructure. Dr. Achyuta Samanta, the visionary founder of KIIT and KISS, received the award from Chanakya Chaudhry, Chairman of the CII National Committee on Sports. The recognition underscored KIIT’s dedication to fostering a conducive environment for sports development.

The awards ceremony also honoured individuals who have played pivotal roles in shaping the sports landscape. Indian Cricket Board secretary and ACC president, Jay Shah, was acknowledged as the “Best Sports Business Leader.” Dr Achyuta Samanta and Nita Ambani, Chairperson and Founder of Reliance Foundation, were recognised as “Sports Business Leaders” for their exceptional leadership in the sports business arena.