India is set to host the inaugural Tennis Ball Cricket World Cup and Asia Cup , marking a historic moment in the evolution of cricket played with tennis balls. These global and continental tournaments will be held exclusively in India, highlighting the country’s growing influence in alternative formats of cricket.
The announcement was made by the Tennis Cricket Association of India (TCAI) through an official press release. The International Tennis Cricket Federation (ITCF) has recognized the rapid growth of tennis ball cricket in India, especially due to the popularity of various regional leagues and competitions.
Among these initiatives, the Dream League of India (DLI) has received special attention for its structured format and year-round operation. Launched in May 2025 by Servotech Sports , this league aims to become the primary talent pipeline for players representing India in the Tennis Ball Cricket World Cup and other international events.
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What is Tennis Ball Cricket?
Tennis ball cricket is a modified form of cricket where games are played using soft tennis balls instead of traditional leather balls. This format is particularly popular among youth in urban slums, rural areas, and small towns where access to formal sports infrastructure is limited.
The game follows the basic rules of cricket but adapts them to suit the characteristics of the tennis ball — which is lighter and less bouncy than a standard cricket ball. Over time, tennis ball cricket has evolved from informal street matches into organized leagues, drawing large audiences and offering opportunities for talented players.
The Rise of Tennis Ball Cricket in India
In recent years, tennis ball cricket has gained immense popularity across India. It is widely played in states like Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu , and many others. The sport’s accessibility, low cost, and inclusive nature have contributed to its widespread appeal.
Punjab, in particular, has emerged as a strong hub for tennis ball cricket. The state government and local communities have actively supported grassroots-level competitions, helping young players develop their skills and gain recognition. Many players from Punjab have already made names for themselves in regional and national-level tennis ball cricket leagues.
The involvement of celebrities and former cricketers in promoting tennis ball cricket has further boosted its popularity. In Punjab, several local clubs and academies now offer coaching in this format, recognizing its potential to nurture future athletes.
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Introduction to the Dream League of India
The Dream League of India (DLI) is a franchise-based tennis ball cricket league launched by Servotech Sports in May 2025. It is designed to provide a professional platform for young talent while serving as a bridge between domestic play and international competition.
The ITCF has acknowledged DLI as a model for talent development and has endorsed it as the main selection pathway for Indian teams participating in the Tennis Ball Cricket World Cup and Asia Cup .
One of the key features of the Dream League of India is that it operates year-round , ensuring continuous engagement of players and coaches. The league includes:
- A franchise-based tournament
- Inter-Zonal Championship Tournaments
- Talent scouting and player development programs
- Pathways to national and international representation
This structure ensures that players remain active throughout the year and continuously improve their performance.
How Players Can Participate in the Dream League of India
Players interested in joining the Dream League of India can register online via the official website or through the Starzpit App . After registration, they participate in nationwide open fair trials , conducted in multiple districts under the supervision of over 1,500 certified coaches .
From thousands of participants, 860 junior players (ages 13–18) and 860 senior players (above 18 years) are shortlisted based on performance. These selected players then enter the player auction , where six franchises per category bid for their preferred players.
Top-performing players during the league may be scouted by ITCF selectors and considered for inclusion in the Indian national team for upcoming global and continental tournaments.
Inter-Zonal Tournament: A Second Chance for Unsold Players
Not all players get picked during the auction, but the Dream League of India ensures that no talent goes unnoticed. Players who remain unsold after the auction can compete in the country’s biggest Inter-Zonal Tournament .
Outstanding performers in this event earn a platinum card , qualifying them directly for Season 2 of DLI . Additionally, the zonal champions advance to the All-Zonal Championship , where the winning team faces the Season 1 Franchise Champion in the opening match of Season 2.
This unique structure gives every player a second chance to prove their worth and stay connected with the league.
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Leadership and Celebrity Support
To add credibility and visibility to the league, prominent personalities from the entertainment and sports industries have been involved.
- Sonu Sood , Bollywood actor and social icon, has been appointed as the Dream League Commissioner for India . His leadership is expected to inspire millions of young players and bring attention to the cause of grassroots sports development.
- Salim Merchant , an acclaimed music composer and singer, has joined the league as one of the six celebrity ambassadors. His involvement is likely to enhance the league’s cultural appeal and reach out to a wider audience.
Their association not only boosts the league’s image but also helps in mobilizing public support for the cause of sports development in India.
Role of Punjab in Promoting Tennis Ball Cricket
Punjab has long been known for producing top athletes in boxing, wrestling, and cricket. With the rise of tennis ball cricket, the state is emerging as a new hotspot for this format as well.
Many local clubs, academies, and community organizations in Punjab have started organizing tennis ball cricket tournaments. These events attract hundreds of players and spectators, creating a vibrant sporting culture.
The Punjab government has also taken steps to promote sports at the grassroots level through schemes like the Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan and sports scholarships for talented youth. These initiatives align with national efforts such as the Khelo India Scheme , aimed at identifying and nurturing young talent.
Additionally, Punjab’s strong diaspora network supports sports development financially and morally, contributing to the overall growth of tennis ball cricket in the state.
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Relevance for Competitive Exam Aspirants
For students preparing for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE), State PCS exams, Patwari exams, and others , the Dream League of India offers several points of relevance across different subjects and papers. Here’s how:
1. Sports Development in India
The Indian government has taken several initiatives to promote sports in recent years, including:
- Khelo India Scheme : Aimed at reviving sports culture and identifying talent at the grassroots level.
- Fit India Movement : Encourages mass participation in physical activities and promotes fitness.
- National Sports Policy : Outlines strategies for developing infrastructure, coaching, and athlete support systems.
The Dream League of India complements these policies by focusing on non-traditional sports formats like tennis ball cricket, thereby expanding the scope of sports participation beyond mainstream disciplines.
2. Youth Empowerment and Skill Development
With lakhs of participants involved in the league, the Dream League of India contributes significantly to youth empowerment and skill development . The involvement of 1,500 certified coaches also creates employment opportunities and encourages formal training in sports coaching.
For exam purposes, this ties into topics such as:
- Youth policy frameworks
- Employment generation through sports
- Physical education and health indicators
3. Public-Private Partnerships (PPP)
The Dream League of India is a classic example of public-private collaboration in the sports sector. While the Tennis Cricket Association of India (TCAI) and ITCF provide regulatory and developmental oversight, Servotech Sports , a private entity, leads the execution and management of the league.
This model demonstrates how private companies can contribute to public welfare by investing in social causes like sports development.
In the General Studies Paper III of UPSC CSE, candidates are often tested on topics related to PPP, innovation in governance, and economic development. The Dream League of India serves as a case study in this regard.
4. Innovation in Sports Formats
Tennis ball cricket represents an innovative adaptation of traditional cricket that is more accessible and inclusive. For aspirants, understanding such innovations is crucial when analyzing:
- Evolution of sports formats
- Accessibility and inclusivity in sports
- Role of technology and affordability in shaping new games
5. Global Representation and Soft Power
As India prepares to host the Tennis Ball Cricket World Cup and Asia Cup , it gains an opportunity to project itself as a global leader in alternative sports formats . This enhances India’s soft power and diplomatic influence through cultural and sporting diplomacy.
Soft power is an essential topic in International Relations , particularly for UPSC mains exams. Candidates should be aware of how India uses sports as a tool for global engagement.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
While the Dream League of India holds immense promise, it also faces several challenges:
- Infrastructure and Logistics : Conducting nationwide trials and matches requires robust logistical planning and investment in sports facilities.
- Standardization of Rules : Ensuring uniformity in rules and regulations across different regions is crucial for maintaining fairness and competitiveness.
- Media Coverage and Sponsorship : To sustain interest and attract top talent, the league must secure consistent media coverage and sponsorships.
- Player Welfare and Career Transition : Providing career guidance and post-retirement support for players is essential for long-term sustainability.
Despite these challenges, the Dream League of India presents a unique opportunity to revolutionize sports development in the country. If successful, it could serve as a blueprint for organizing other non-traditional sports formats across India and even globally.
The Tennis Ball Cricket World Cup and Asia Cup being hosted in India mark a significant milestone in the history of cricket. With the launch of the Dream League of India , the country now has a structured and professional platform to identify and nurture talent in this format.
For aspiring athletes, especially those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, this initiative opens doors to national and international recognition. For competitive exam aspirants, it highlights important themes such as sports development, youth empowerment, public-private partnerships, and soft power .
States like Punjab are playing a vital role in promoting tennis ball cricket, reflecting broader trends of grassroots sports development across India.
Whether you’re a cricket enthusiast or a serious exam candidate, the Tennis Ball Cricket World Cup and the Dream League of India represent a new chapter in Indian sports history — one that deserves your attention.
