BENGALURU: The Kodava Cricket Leather Ball Premier League (KPL) returned for its second season on April 1 at the Tata Coffee cricket grounds in Pollibetta, bringing IPL-style franchise cricket to Kodagu, often referred to as the “Scotland of India.”
Organized by the Coorg Cricket Foundation (CCF) with the support of Tata Coffee Ltd, the tournament will run until April 13, showcasing some of the region’s finest cricketing talents.
The highly anticipated player auction, held in Mysuru, saw 10 franchise teams—including Kodava Warriors, Coorg United, Team Kodava Tribe, MTB Royals, Team Wildflower, Pragathi Cricketers, Coorg Blasters, Kodava Rising Stars, Western Ghat Warriors, and Team Leverage—assemble their squads through an intense bidding process.
This season marks a progressive milestone with the inclusion of two women cricketers, expanding opportunities for female athletes in the region. Matches are being live-streamed on YouTube, allowing fans from across the globe to witness Coorg’s cricketing prowess.
Kodagu, known for its deep-rooted hockey culture, is now embracing leather ball cricket with equal enthusiasm. Porukonda Sunil, founder-president of KPL, highlighted the vision behind the initiative, which was conceptualized in 2018 to tap into Coorg’s abundant cricketing talent. “As a community, we play real and intense hockey—now it’s time for real cricket,” said Sunil.
The success of Season 1 in 2024, held in Madikeri, set the stage for an even grander Season 2, providing a professional platform for players while promoting fitness, discipline, and career growth.”This event inspires youngsters to stay fit, improve their game, and even enhance their academic and professional careers,” Sunil added.
Vice President Palachanda Jagan Uthappa and wecretary Chandira Rachan reiterated KPL’s commitment to nurturing young talent and delivering high-quality cricket in Kodagu.
With fast-paced action, top-tier talent, and growing enthusiasm, they said KPL Season 2 is set to redefine Kodagu’s sporting culture.