Jain Premier League goes big: 12 teams auctioned for Rs 31 crore, plans to rope in Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, Jonty Rhodes

The Jain Premier League (JPL) has taken a major leap, transforming from a community-driven initiative into a high-value sporting platform after its first-ever franchise auction generated an impressive Rs 31 crore. With participation from 12 teams and more than 50 bidders, the league is now being seen as a serious entrant in India’s evolving sports ecosystem.

Backed by the Jain International Trade Organisation (JITO), the league has already attracted significant interest, marking a new chapter for community cricket in the country.

Jain Premier League Auction: Key Highlights and Team Valuations

The franchise auction witnessed competitive bidding, with several teams fetching strong valuations:

• Mumbai Sobo Star emerged as the most expensive team, sold for Rs 3.70 crore
• Bengaluru followed with a bid of Rs 3.15 crore
• Gujarat team was acquired for Rs 2.36 crore by a Surat-based businessman

According to TOI, Shweta Hundia, secretary of JITO Sports, confirmed these figures, highlighting the strong investor confidence in the league.

JPL Structure: From Community Initiative to Corporate Sports Model

The Jain Premier League is no longer just a community event. It is now being operated as a full-fledged corporate sports property.

JITO Apex chairman Pruthviraj Kothari said, “This year, we plan to host more than 40 matches in 12 cities in April and May. The playoffs and final are likely to be held in Mumbai.”

To manage operations professionally, a new entity, JITO Sports Foundation, has been established. The foundation will handle logistics, coaching, and player development, reducing the financial burden on franchise owners.

JPL Player Participation and Contracts Explained

The league has already received over 6,500 player applications, with numbers expected to grow further.

According to TOI, JITO Apex vice-chairman Himanshu Shah said many players could not apply earlier due to exams, suggesting a rise in registrations in the coming weeks.

Players will be signed on three-year contracts under different categories:

• Category A: Rs 1 lakh
• Category B: Rs 60,000
• Category C: Rs 40,000

This structured system aims to ensure fair compensation and long-term player engagement.

How Teams Will Earn in the Jain Premier League

JPL franchises are expected to generate revenue through:

• Brand endorsements and sponsorship deals
• Profit-sharing from league surplus
• Future stake trading at higher valuations

Jainik Vakil, secretary of JITO Ahmedabad, noted that 40% of surplus funds at the end of the season will be distributed among teams, making it an attractive investment opportunity.

Big Cricket Names Likely to Join JPL

To enhance its profile, the league is planning to onboard prominent international and Indian cricket personalities as mentors and icon players.

According to TOI, names being considered include Jonty Rhodes, Sanath Jayasuriya, Ross Taylor, Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, and Munaf Patel.

Their involvement is expected to boost the league’s credibility, technical quality, and fan engagement.

JPL Matches, Streaming and Entertainment Plans

The Jain Premier League is being positioned as a complete sports entertainment platform.

Key plans include:

• More than 40 matches across 12 cities
• Grand opening and closing ceremonies
• Live streaming on the JITO YouTube channel and a leading OTT platform
• Multi-camera broadcast production for a professional viewing experience

These initiatives aim to attract a wider audience beyond the community.

Inputs from TOI