Sports viewership rising in India, biz of leagues requires high investment

Indian sports viewership (TV) numbers grew 30 per cent over the two-year period between 2014 and 2015, according to a report titled The Business of Sports. The report, released by KPMG India in association with the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) says that in 2015, the Indian sports sponsorship market grew 6.7 per cent year-on-year to Rs 5,190 crore.

The report says sports consumption in India is on the rise with leagues, as well international sports garnering strong support across multiple platforms. While India is a latecomer in adopting the league concept, it is rapidly covering ground; of the 11 operational leagues, nine were launched during 2013-16, and two more are planned in 2016. Regional games packaged in interesting league formats have been successful in garnering rural viewership, too. The early success of league-based events across multiple sports indicates a strong potential for Indians to consume sports other than cricket.The report further adds that 2014 saw the emergence of potentially successful leagues, including Pro Kabaddi League, Indian Super League, International Premier Tennis League, and Champions Tennis League. These are encouraging trends for the future of sports. However, the business of leagues requires high investments and has long gestation periods.