Pune: The Indian Cue Masters League was formally launched by the Billiards and Snooker Federation of India and Sportzlive Entertainment, its rights holders and organisers on Tuesday, in the presence of top players like 16 times World Snooker and Billiard Champion, Pankaj Advani and Asian Women’s Snooker Champion Bronze Medalist, Vidya Pillai.
Called Cue Slam -- Indian Cue Masters League, it hopes to not only bring entertainment to the fans but to also inspire them to take up the sport in a big way.
As many as 25 players were picked during the players draft, with marquee players being picked at $15,000 USD.
BSFI President PVK Mohan said “It is a matter of huge pride for us that we are able to host a league of our own. This will not only raise the profile of the game but also make it financially strong. I am sure Cue Slam will be a great experience for, the fans and the players.”
Sportzlive Entertainment, who are also the official license holders of the Premier Badminton League, have acquired long-term rights for Cue Slam.
While BSFI will provide technical support and help in acquiring players, Sportzlive will be responsible for managing and executing the entire league.
Cue Slam will be played on a round robin cum knock-out format.
Each tie will consist of five matches with three 6 Red snooker and two 9 Ball pool matches per tie.
Each franchise will have five players (1 Icon player, 1 Female player, 3 Men players, with a stipulation that a minimum of three Indians will be in the team).
The sport going big
- The inaugural season is to be played in Ahmedabad from August 19 to 25 and the matches will be broadcast live on Sony ESPN from 6 to 8:30 pm and is expected to catch the fancy of cue enthusiasts.
- The event will be a five team affair. The franchises from New Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai and Ahmedabad have been christened as Delhi Dons, Chennai Sharks, Gujarat Kings, Bengaluru Buddies and Hyderabad Hustlers.