Champions League T20 ropes in Airtel as title sponsor

Airtel has been signed as the title sponsor of the Champions League Twenty20 for the next five years starting with the inaugural season in 2009. Airtel signed the deal with ESPN STAR Sports, the commercial partners of Champions League T20.

The first edition of the Champions League will be played in India starting October 08, 2009.

As a part of this sponsorship, Airtel will have rights to on-ground title sponsorship for a period of five years. The tournament will now be called Airtel Champions League Twenty20.

Commenting on this partnership, Shireesh Joshi, director – marketing, Bharti Airtel said, “We have seen a great synergy between our brand and cricket, since both cater and connect to a wide spectrum of consumer segments. This synergy combined with the success of the Twenty 20 format and the growing popularity of club cricket in India makes this a great opportunity for us to partner.”

Speaking on the occasion, RC Venkateish, managing director, ESPN Software India Pvt Ltd, said, “We have always believed that this league will stand out as a premier international cricket property in the annual calendar of international cricket and this landmark partnership vindicates that stand. I am confident that together we will create a wonderful experience for the cricket fan and help make this tournament even bigger in the days to come.”

Added, Sundar Raman, CEO, Champions League Twenty20, said, "The tournament will feature the best of the best in Twenty 20 teams from across the world and is sure to enthrall the cricket loving fans in India and across the world.”