Former India skipper and Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) president Sourav Ganguly has confirmed that the state would have a franchise-based Twenty20 league which will start in December this year. The league named, Bengal Premier League (BPL), will have six teams.

Confirming the news, the 44-year old said that he has already signed a contract with IMG-R for the tournament before adding that the six-team tournament would be played across three grounds- Eden Gardens, Jadavpur University second campus in Salt Lake and a third ground in the district. Ganguly also said that the board would instil floodlights in the other grounds other than the Eden Gardens soon.

“I have signed a contract with IMG-R. There will be six teams taking part and three grounds have been allotted for the tournament,” Ganguly told reporters on Friday (May 19).

“We will install temporary floodlights in the two grounds,” he added.

The cricket-turned-administrator also said that the league would have top players from around the country in addition to having local players.

When asked about the motive behind starting the new league, Ganguly said:

“This is being done to promote Bengal cricket.”

Last year, the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association had also started their Premier League which was a huge hit. Not only that, there were also several lesser-known players who shot to limelight after doing well in the Tamil Nadu Premier League. Bengal would be hoping the same as they embark on a new and exciting journey. The tournament, which will be played in December, will also be the perfect preparation for players before the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The auctions are likely to be held in the last week of August.