CLT20 is the best global product we have: Fleming

Chennai Super Kings Coach Stephen Fleming. Photo: G.P. Sampath Kumar

CSK coach Stephen Fleming has stated that sides from outside India stand to gain the most from competing in the Champions League T20.

In a press conference here on Sunday, he spoke on the significance of the tournament.

Excerpts:

The benefits: The tournament has a substantial influence on some of the domestic teams from outside India. If you look at the New Zealand side Northern Knights, the money is a factor. Also, the team’s profile has improved because it is receiving a lot of attention from the media.

Because there is a financial benefit, there is a real emphasis on sides in New Zealand to qualify for the tournament. And if you perform well here, it has a very good spin-off effect.

Global appeal: Does the CLT20 reflect on complete global participation, and does it have the percentages right?

Well, not so much. I’m sure that the organisers would like to include other countries and expand it, but it is just not possible with the amount of cricket that is being played.

It is, however, the best global product that we have for now. The players — both foreign and Indian — know how important this tournament is.

CSK’s gain: We would like to win the IPL and the CLT20 every year. If one does not happen, then the onus is on the other.

We enjoy each other’s company, and it is an opportunity for us to take some time off from our congested international schedules. It is not a play thing, it’s a business. And the more we grow our brand by winning tournaments like this, the more financially secure the franchise stands.