Archives 2025

Gozoop Creative & BN Group Unveil ‘Simply Fresh’ Campaign

Gozoop Creative Digital

Mumbai, February 4th, 2025 – Gozoop Creative Digital, the creative arm of the integrated marketing powerhouse Gozoop Group, is thrilled to announce the latest campaign for Simply Fresh, one of India’s leading cooking oil brands from the BN Group. This exciting partnership highlights a key milestone in Gozoop Creative Digital’s journey, emphasizing the agency’s fast-track growth through integrated creative campaigns and diverse brand mandates.

Gozoop Creative Digital launched – Jaisa Ghar Waisa Cooking Oil for Nutrica, another brand of the same group. Again a category-breaking piece of work in the industry. With the Simply Fresh mandate, it has deepened the relationship with the group. With #RakhoIraadeFresh – the agency has positioned the brand ‘Simply Fresh’ as a category disruptor. Taking a cue from BN Group’s philosophy of Building a Nation, the campaign focuses on heroes who build our nation every day.

Gozoop Creative Digital was also responsible for refreshing the brand identity of BN Group last year and the relationship has only evolved and strengthened. Building on an ongoing collaboration, the agency developed a comprehensive 360-degree strategy to amplify Simply Fresh’s mission of nation-building through “Fresh Iraade.” This vision came to life with the #RakhoIraadeFresh campaign, which aimed to crowdsource inspiring heroes and provide them with a platform to share their stories. By spotlighting untold stories of changemakers, the campaign encouraged individuals to reconnect with their purpose and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Its category-breaking 60-second storytelling stood out, blending emotional resonance with a compelling narrative that seamlessly embodied Simply Fresh’s vision of inspiring societal change.

Gozoop Creative Digital’s responsibilities for Simply Fresh encompass digital marketing, social media engagement, TV commercials, print advertisements, influencer collaborations, in-store promotions, and OTT advertising, all aimed at strengthening the brand’s identity and fostering a deeper connection with its audience.

Kiran Giradkar, CMO, of BN Group, stated, “Rakho Iraade Fresh’ campaign has been a result of Gozoop’s passion for authentic storytelling and deeper understanding of our vision. We hope this campaign will create a strong emotional connection with our audience and drive meaningful conversations. We are excited to introduce a few more IPs to amplify Simply Fresh’s mission of inspiring societal change.”

Speaking about this dynamic partnership, Amyn Ghadiali, Country Head – India, Gozoop Creative Digital said, “At Gozoop Creative Digital, we believe that communication must drive business impact. Our philosophy to Break the Box ensures we create work that matters. Working on the Simply Fresh campaign has been a fulfilling journey, anchored in a shared vision to grow the brand through meaningful communication, showcasing our commitment to crafting brand stories that inspire while delivering tangible results. We look forward to helping Simply Fresh unlock new avenues of growth and success.”

The Simply Fresh is the second major campaign launched by Gozoop Creative Digital from the BN Group, following Nutrica. Gozoop Creative Digital is excited to nurture the partnership, driving forward their mission to building nation as a corporate philosophy of BN Group

Cooper Corporation Takes a Leap into Agriculture with Inauguration of State-of-the-Art Tractor Plant and First-Ever Cooper Tractor NDC Series

Mumbai / Satara: Cooper Corporation, a globally renowned manufacturer of engines, engine components and generators, proudly inaugurated its state-of-the-art Tractor Plant in Satara, Maharashtra, on Saturday, 1st February 2025. The event also marked the launch of the company’s first-ever tractor, the Cooper Tractor NDC Series, designed to revolutionize farming with its superior performance, fuel efficiency and innovative engineering.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Shri. Ch. ShivendraRaje Bhosale, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister for Public Works, Government of Maharashtra, as the Chief Guest. The event was also attended by esteemed dignitaries, including Shri. Mahesh Shinde (Hon’ble Vice Chairman, Maha. Krushna Khore Vikas Mahamandal, MLA) and Shri Clive Bagnall, Director – Global Product Development of Ricardo, UK.

Inauguration Picture 1

The State-of-the-Art Tractor Plant and the launch of the Cooper Tractor NDC Series are a part of the company’s ongoing mission to innovate and provide superior, high-performance machinery to the agriculture sector. The Cooper Tractor, designed for tough terrains and heavy-duty operations, comes with an array of innovative features, such as high fuel efficiency, ergonomic design and lower maintenance costs. Developed in collaboration with renowned global engineering firms such as Magna Steyr for design, Ricardo UK for engine development, Carraro for transmission and Mita for hydraulics, the Cooper Tractor promises superior performance and savings in fuel, service and operational costs and is tailored for Indian farming needs. As Mr. Farrokh Cooper is the first agriculture graduate to own a tractor factory and has his own agricultural lands, he is well aware of what exactly a farmer needs from a tractor and has provided his personal insights into the design and development of the Cooper tractor.

Shri. Farrokh N. Cooper, Chairman & Managing Director, Cooper Corporation Pvt. Ltd., expressed his vision for the new venture, stating “Today marks a historic milestone for Cooper Corporation as we step into the agricultural sector with the launch of our first-ever tractor. The Cooper Tractor NDC Series is a result of years of research, innovation and dedication to delivering a product that truly serves the needs of Indian farmers. Built with global expertise and local insights, this tractor is designed to enhance productivity, reduce operational costs and withstand the toughest farming conditions. As a company deeply rooted in Satara, we are proud to contribute to the growth of Indian agriculture and the prosperity of our farmers.”

The Cooper Tractor NDC Series is engineered to meet the diverse needs of modern farming. With features like dual-clutch transmission, power steering and a low turning radius of 3 meters, the tractor ensures ease of operation and superior performance. Its fuel-efficient 4-valve engine, Bed plate design, HLA, Bosch Fuel System, ceramic-coated rings, Piston Cooling Jet and long-life compacted graphite cylinder head, First of its kind for Long life & Durability and low maintenance, Champion at Haulage and farming operations like ploughing and rotavator, No front weight , Long tyre life, It boasts key advantages such as no engine oil top-up, longer service intervals , The tractor’s superior performance is highlighted by its easy deep ploughing, low RPM drop during fieldwork and a quick forward & reverse shuttle lever, etc. making it a reliable companion for farmers. Cooper Tractor is built to serve the world with the highest standards of excellence.

Praj Industries Names Ashish Gaikwad as MD-Designate

Mr. Ashish Gaikwad

Pune, India – Feb 4, 2025 – Praj Industries, a global leader in bioeconomy solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Ashish Gaikwad as Managing Director-Designate, effective February 3, 2025. This transition marks a significant milestone in the company’s growth journey.

Mr. Gaikwad will succeed Mr. Shishir Joshipura, CEO & MD, who will complete his tenure on June 30, 2025. To ensure a seamless transition, Mr. Gaikwad will work closely with Mr.

Joshipura and the leadership team over the coming months, ensuring the continuity of Praj’s strategic priorities.

Mr. Gaikwad brings over 34 years of experience in industrial automation, digitalization, process technology, renewable energy transition, artificial intelligence, and autonomous manufacturing. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Honors) in Electrical & Electronics from BITS Pilani, India. Before joining Praj Industries, he successfully led Honeywell Automation India Ltd. as Managing Director for over seven years. Throughout his career at Honeywell, he held diverse leadership positions spanning India, Southeast Asia, Asia Pacific, and the USA, with expertise in project engineering, sales leadership, strategy, business management, and corporate governance.

Commenting on the appointment, Dr. Pramod Chaudhari, Founder Chairman of Praj Industries, said: “We are delighted to welcome Mr. Ashish Gaikwad to Praj Industries. His deep industry expertise and global leadership experience will be instrumental in driving our innovation-led growth strategy. Under his guidance, Praj will continue to advance its vision of a sustainable bioeconomy.”

Budget reaction from Mahesh Babu, CEO of SWITCH Mobility

Mahesh Babu,

Mahesh Babu, CEO of SWITCH Mobility

“India’s FY25-26 budget targets economic growth with a 4.4% fiscal deficit and income tax cuts, including exemptions for individuals earning up to ₹12 lakh boost disposable income, consumer spending benefiting sectors like commercial vehicles with higher logistics demands. The budget also simplifies duties and taxes to support MSMEs, startups, and entrepreneurship.”

The exemption of customs duties on lithium-ion batteries and critical minerals such as cobalt, zinc, and lead represents a crucial step in reinforcing India’s electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem. This move will enhance the competitiveness of the EV industry, helping it to grow more rapidly and become a key player in the global market. It accelerates India’s progress toward Aatmanirbharta in clean energy and sustainable mobility solutions. These measures are expected to reduce the overall cost of EVs, making them more affordable for consumers, which directly supports the government’s ambitious target of achieving 30% EV adoption by 2030.”

Shankar Mahadevan and Roshan Abbas bring music and stories to life at Spoken Fest 2025, Mumbai

shankar

Kommune, India’s acclaimed cultural storytelling hub, concluded the two-day celebration of music, words, and everything love, Spoken Fest—Asia’s largest spoken word festival—in Mumbai on February 2nd, 2025. The evening brought together two creative powerhouses—musical virtuoso Shankar Mahadevan and the dynamic founder of Kommune India, Roshan Abbas—for an unfiltered conversation that delved into the heart of music and creative synergy.

It was an eclectic mix of storytelling and music, where Shankar Mahadevan brought together his life in music through memorable music performances and stimulating conversation. From the opening moments, Mahadevan transported the audience back to the genesis of his journey. He talked about how he was comfortable with this corporate job as well as doing music. The Grammy-winning singer took a call at the age of 26-27 to leave his job at a reputed software firm that provided a cushioned life in the USA with financial stability and pursue his passion for music full-time. He told his boss, “Sir, mujhe career change karna hain kal.” He knew that the path was foggy and the future was unstable, but without this leap of faith, Mahadevan said, he would not have been where he was today.

Both Roshan Abbas and Shankar Mahadevan took a trip down the memory lane of how, when Breathless became a raging hit, the singer did his first corporate show with Roshan, underlining the friendship that they have shared for almost 30 years.

During his music performances, Shankar was joined by the rising music star and actor Souumil Shringarpure of Bandish Bandits fame. The night came alive with breathtaking renditions of some of Mahadevan’s most iconic songs, including Breathless, Dil Chahta Hai, Mitwa, and Marathi hit Sur Niragas Ho. Each note served as a reminder of the timeless impact of his music, leaving the audience spellbound.

He also gave the audience a glimpse of his thinking process and the joy he finds when music and lyrics come together when Abbas asked him an interesting question. Roshan requested him to break down the music for an engineer, taking a deep dive into the technicalities of music, a one-of-a-kind experience to delve into the mind of the maestro.

With reference to his popular song, Mitwa, he explained to the audience, “You can deconstruct any melody to its relevant sargam. It is like any program if you break it down into its relevant, equivalent binaries. Music can represent a playground, where you can freely dance, play, and jump around. The binary layers are sargam, the lowermost layer. It is the spelling of Mitwa. If you remove the sargam, then the melody comes. When you put lyrics on the melody, it becomes a song. The application of classical music comes here. Why should you learn classical music? For the application of it, and to sing a harkat in Mitwa.”

While talking about the new wave of musicians, Shankar Mahadevan fondly reminisced about late Zakir Hussain, saying, “When I was in junior college, my dream was to meet the band members of Shakti. The most phenomenal band that pioneered taking Indian music to the next level. We used to go to a cassette store, ‘Embassy,’ in Chembur, and it was like a masterclass. I used to ask Zakir’s brother, Fazal, to make me meet Zakir Hussain and click a picture with him and Shakti. If you put it out there and manifest it very strongly, the universe definitely gives it. I ended up touring with ‘Shakti’ for 25 years. When I used to be on stage, I used to wonder if it was a dream. I just wanted to meet them, and now I am sitting on stage with them. The word ‘Tabla’ has lost its meaning after Zakir Hussain is no more.”

The singer also took the audience through the journey of how the trio, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, came together. While Shankar used to sing jingles for advertisements, Ehsaan and Loy were reputed producers already. Their frequent studio hangouts fostered a creative partnership of 30 years. He chronicled the journey from making and producing the biggest hit, Sabse Aage Honge Hindustani for a shelved film, ‘Dus’, to not having any contractual relationship for all these years. It is sheer love, friendship, and respect for each other’s ideas that has kept the trio going!

Shankar Mahadevan also gave a memorable performance of Breathless, which gave him fame when it came out in 1988. He talked about how the song came about during an intellectually intense conversation with Javed Akhtar. Before ending up performing the song not once but twice, on public demand underscoring the enthusiasm that the audience at the festival brought during the session.

Furthermore, he also gave a glimpse into the success of Shankar Mahadevan Academy, which uplifts the spirits of people who struggle with illness, pain, or a lonely heart with the power of music and partners with hospitals, care centres, and senior-citizen communities to stage free online concerts by musicians.

Dr. Birbal Jha: A Visionary Author, Educator and Youth Icon

WhatsApp Image 2025-02-04 at 11.47.57 AM

In a world where education, culture, and language intersect to shape individuals and societies, few have contributed as profoundly as Dr. Birbal Jha. Born in the riverine village of Sijoul in Bihar, India, Dr. Jha has carved out a remarkable niche for himself, not only as an educator and self-help author but also as a cultural activist, social entrepreneur, and a staunch advocate for the transformative power of English education. His remarkable achievements have earned him recognition as one of the Top 20 Self-Help Authors in the world, and his impact on the education sector and beyond is undeniable.

Dr. Birbal Jha: The Self-Help Author

Dr. Birbal Jha’s name is synonymous with self-help literature in India. His best-known book, Celebrate Your Life, has been hailed as a game-changer in personal growth. With a focus on empowering individuals to overcome challenges and live fulfilling lives, Celebrate Your Life has touched the hearts of millions. Alongside this, his Spoken English Kit has been instrumental in helping people improve their communication skills, offering tools that have enabled individuals from all walks of life to enhance their career prospects and social mobility.

As a prolific author, Dr. Birbal Jha has written over 30 books on topics ranging from English communication skills to personal development, parenting, and social issues. His writings blend intellectual depth and practical wisdom, always focusing on improving the lives of his readers. His books are not mere additions to libraries; they are transformative tools for anyone looking to enhance their life, career, and personal growth.

Revolutionizing English Education in India

Perhaps one of Dr. Birbal Jha’s most significant contributions to India as well as the world has been his revolutionary approach to English education. In 1993, he founded British Lingua, a social enterprise with the mission of democratizing English education for all. His famous slogan, English for All, captures the essence of his vision — making English accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.

Dr. Jha’s innovative Structural-cum-Interactive Method (English SIM) has been lauded for making English language learning quick and efficient, even for beginners. His training methods are designed not just for academic success but also to help individuals build confidence in their daily communication. This approach has been particularly transformative in rural areas and among marginalized communities, where access to English education has historically been limited.
One of the highlights of Dr. Jha’s work was his involvement in the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi. As part of his mission to improve English skills across India, he led the first-ever training program in Spoken English and Behavior Skills for the Games’ frontline workers. This initiative was not only groundbreaking but also demonstrated his ability to mobilize large-scale social change through education.

A Cultural Advocate: Save the Paag Campaign

Dr. Jha is not only a beacon of education but also a passionate advocate for preserving and promoting cultural heritage. In 2017, he launched the Save the Paag Campaign, which focused on raising awareness about the traditional Mithila headgear known as the “Paag.” This unique cultural symbol holds deep significance for the people of Mithila, and Dr. Jha’s campaign aimed to safeguard it from fading into obscurity. His efforts culminated in the issuance of a postal stamp by the Government of India to honor the Paag as a cultural emblem of Mithila.

The campaign connected over forty million people, bringing them together to celebrate and preserve their heritage. His tireless work in this regard earned him the title of “Paagman of India,” a recognition of his leadership in cultural activism. Dr. Jha’s passion for Mithila’s traditions is a testament to his commitment to not only shaping the future of India but also honoring its rich cultural past.

Social Justice and Advocacy for Children’s Rights

Dr. Jha’s work extends beyond education and culture. He is also deeply committed to social justice, particularly when it comes to the safety and well-being of children. His book Child Safety and the poignant lyrics of songs like Kya Gunah Tha Mere Bache Ka (What was the fault of my child?) have shed light on the pressing issues surrounding child safety and the need for greater protection for the most vulnerable members of society. His emotional and powerful lyrics have resonated with millions, further amplifying his voice as a social activist.

His involvement in social causes, particularly his efforts to safeguard children’s rights, has earned him admiration from diverse quarters. Dr. Jha’s ability to combine activism with creative expression is a testament to his multifaceted approach to societal change.

Recognition and Awards

Dr. Birbal Jha’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous accolades, including the National Education Excellence Award (2010), the Star of Asia Award (2016), and the Bihar Achiever Award (2017). These awards serve as recognition not only for his work as an author but also for his broader contributions to society, especially in the realms of education, social justice, and cultural preservation.

In addition to these prestigious honors, Dr. Jha’s work has garnered the respect and admiration of some of the most notable figures in academia and literature. His intellect and multifaceted approach to life have earned him the admiration of people like Oxonian S. Paul, who lauds him as a “veritable polymath,” and Stephanian V. Sukheja, who describes him as a “paragon of human virtues.”

Dr. Jha’s Influence on Indian and Global Education

Dr. Jha’s efforts to revolutionize English education have had a profound impact not only on India but also on the global stage. Through his enterprise British Lingua, millions of students have been trained in English, giving them the skills they need to succeed in the global economy. His work has bridged the gap between India’s rural and urban populations, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth to individuals who would otherwise have been left behind.
His influence is especially significant in the context of India’s education system, which has long faced challenges related to accessibility and quality. Dr. Jha’s emphasis on English as a key tool for success has aligned with global educational trends, which increasingly prioritize English proficiency as a vital skill for students worldwide. In a nation where English proficiency is often a prerequisite for upward mobility, Dr. Jha has opened doors for millions, particularly those in unprivileged communities.

A Legacy of Empowerment

Dr. Birbal Jha’s legacy is one of empowerment — empowering individuals through education, culture, and social change. His work has transformed the lives of millions, helping them gain the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive in a competitive world. From his innovative approach to teaching English to his tireless efforts to preserve cultural heritage and protect children’s rights, Dr. Jha has demonstrated that one person can indeed make a difference in shaping the future.

His books, courses, and social initiatives have impacted not just the lives of individuals but also the broader societal landscape, creating lasting change in the way people view education, culture, and personal growth. Through his work, Dr. Birbal Jha has proven that the path to success is not just through knowledge but through a commitment to making the world a better place for everyone.

Dean Mahomed: A Historical Parallel

To understand the significance of Dr. Birbal Jha’s contributions to English education in India, it’s important to look back at history. One of the first authors in India to write in English was Dean Mahomed, a figure largely forgotten in the annals of Indian history. Born in 1759 in Patna, Bihar, Mahomed was an early pioneer of English literature in India, authoring a memoir titled The Travels of Dean Mahomed, which is considered one of the earliest English books written by an Indian author. This historical connection between Dr. Jha and Mahomed underscores a long-standing tradition of literary contributions from Bihar to the English-speaking world. Just as Mahomed’s work bridged cultures and created awareness about India’s rich heritage, Dr. Jha’s work continues to transform lives, particularly by making English education accessible to those who were previously excluded from it.

Conclusion

Dr. Birbal Jha is more than just an educator or author; he is a symbol of the transformative power of education, culture, and activism. His work has touched the lives of millions, inspiring them to reach for their dreams and embrace their cultural identities. As one of the Top 20 Self-Help Authors in India, he stands as a beacon of hope and possibility for countless individuals across the country. His legacy is a testament to the power of education to change lives, and his vision continues to inspire future generations to come.

Dr. Jha’s life and work demonstrate that true success lies not only in personal achievement but also in the ability to uplift others. Whether through his books, his social campaigns, or his educational initiatives, Dr. Birbal Jha has shown that the pursuit of knowledge and the desire to create a positive impact are the keys to a better world.

Budget Reaction from Baba Kalyani, CMD

Mr. Baba Kalyani, Chairman & MD of Bharat Forge Ltd.

“ The budget presents a strong focus on the inherent strengths of the Indian economy and key economic drivers of Viksit Bharat 2047.

The 3M’s that bring me cheer are – Middle Class, MSMEs, and Make in India!

  •  A big boost to the salaried middle class will accelerate economic growth
  •  Revised Classification and Exports push to help Indian MSMEs go global!
  •  Focussed attention on ‘Make in India’ in HiTech and labor-intensive industries will attract investments.

I also welcome the launch of the Manufacturing Mission, the Exports Promotion Mission, and the Nuclear Energy Mission.

Initiatives such as Cancer Care Centers in every district across the country will further modernize the Healthcare and Medical Infrastructure across the country.

Special development measures to boost agriculture productivity, self-reliance in pulses, and leveraging ‘India Post’ to deliver financial services are expected to drive Rural Growth.

What is noteworthy is a special mention of revamping the Bilateral Investment Treaty Model – a sign of following an India First model amidst heightened global volatility.

The hallmark of successive governments under the leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister has been continued thrust on ease of doing business, fiscal prudence, and investment-led growth.

Today’s Budget continues to deliver on these three levers, and I am confident that these initiatives collectively signal a robust blueprint for India’s progressive and inclusive development.”- Baba Kalyani, Chairman & MD, Bharat Forge Ltd.

Actress Aditi Patwa Joins Chatti Maiyya Ki Bitiya: I am thankful for the chance to play a character that has

Aditi

After a six-year leap in Chatti Maiyya Ki Bitiya on Sun Neo, the drama has intensified with unexpected twists and intriguing new characters. Among them is Aditi Patwa, whose entry is set to shake things up. She joins the show as Kajal, a character full of surprises, ready to stir emotions and keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

Talking about her role, Aditi shared, “I feel extremely happy and grateful to be part of Sun Neo’s Chatti Maiyya Ki Bitiya. The show is special to me, especially since it has become very popular in my city, Patna. Being part of such a well-loved show makes this experience even more meaningful. I am also thankful for the chance to play a character with both positive and negative shades, which adds depth to my role. Kajal is complex, with different sides to her, and she keeps me challenged as an actor. I’m enjoying playing this role because it constantly surprises me with new twists and turns.”

The Chatti Maiyya Ki Bitiya actress further added, “I am really looking forward to the audience’s reaction to my character’s journey. Kajal brings a lot of drama and depth to the story, and I’m excited to see how viewers respond to the unfolding twists.”

With the leap, Chatti Maiyya Ki Bitiya on Sun Neo has taken an exciting turn. Vaishnavi and Karthik’s lives have changed, but is their love strong enough to withstand the test of time? Will Chatti Maiyya guide Vaishnavi back to Kartik, or will fate take them on separate paths? With new challenges, deep emotions, and unexpected twists, the story is about to get even more gripping.

Mahindra Auto Jan 2025: SUV Sales Up 18 Percent, Total Volumes Grow 16 Percent

Mahindra Logo

Chandigarh, February 04, 2025: Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M Ltd.), one of India’s leading automotive companies, today announced that its overall auto sales for January 2025 stood at 85432 vehicles, a growth of 16%, including exports.

In the Utility Vehicles segment, Mahindra sold 50659 vehicles in the domestic market, a growth of 18%, and overall, 52306 vehicles, including exports. The domestic sales for Commercial Vehicles stood at 23917.

According to Veejay Nakra, President, Automotive Division, M&M Ltd., “We began the new year by selling 50659 SUVs, a growth of 18% and 85432 total vehicles, a growth of 16%. Our Electric Origin SUVs, BE6 and XEV 9E garnered a lot of interest at the recently concluded Bharat Mobility Global Expo held in New Delhi. We commenced the test drive for these vehicles on the 14th of January and are excited about bringing these vehicles to our customers. Bookings for these vehicles will commence on 14th February.”

I love coming here for DP World ILT20, the competition here is fierce,says Wasim Akram

Dubai, February 04th, 2025: With the battlelines drawn for the DP World ILT20 Season 3 finale, Pakistan bowling legend and former captain Wasim Akram put his weight behind the Desert Vipers to outshine. While the Vipers were the first team in this season to book a berth in the play-offs with their dominating show with the bat and the ball, defending champions MI Emirates finished second in the points table to qualify. Sharjah Warriorz and Dubai Capitals became the third team and fourth team respectively to sneak into the play-offs after their commanding victories on Super Sunday buoyed by incredible crowd support during the double-header held in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

wasim

Underscoring the fierce competition to find a place in the top four, Akram said, “I love coming here for the DP World ILT20. I have thoroughly enjoyed being here as a commentator and watch closely some very fresh talent coming out of this league.

Until yesterday, we only had one team sure of their place in the play-offs. This shows the quality of the competition here; it shows the consistency of the wickets. There were five teams who still stood a chance to make it to the top four.”

With seven wins from nine games, Desert Vipers have been in top form through the league stage and have turned their performance around this season after a poor outing last edition. “For me, Desert Vipers are my favourite team and there is a reason why they are my favourite,” he further explained. “It is not because they are table toppers but because they had three Pakistani players in their squad and we saw some good performances from them in the league stage. Though Azam Khan needs to fire yet but we still have another week’s play left where he could score a quick-fire 50 to help his team win,” Akram expressed.

With the league providing a golden opportunity for the UAE players to rub shoulders with global icons of the game, Akram believes the exposure is paying off with players like Muhammad Waseem, Aayan Afzal Khan and Muhammad Rohid living up to the billing. “There are quite a few UAE players who have stood out this season. Waseem has been quite consistent as an opener and he is quite senior. If we were to speak about fast bowlers, then Rohid is doing well. Aayan came in, scored a six to help his team win by chasing. He has been a good all-rounder for his team.”

“What I look forward to from these young players is to take the experience from here, be consistent and be on top of the ladder in their performance. Spending over a month with some of the best players in the world is a big bonus for them. They should be learning about their mindset, how they train and what they eat. The vision behind this league is to groom players for UAE and that is happening. It is now time for UAE to be one of the top performers among Associate Member nations,” Akram signed off.

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