Hingis, Rusedski among foreign stars in CTL 2

Swiss legend Martina Hingis and former British-Canadian star Greg Rusedski are among the foreign attractions in the upcoming second season of the Champions Tennis League (CTL).

The second edition of the CTL, which features six city-based franchises, will be held from November 23 to December 6. Apart from Hingis (Hyderabad Aces) and Rusedski (Punjab Marshals), former World No.1 Jelena Jankovic (Nagpur Orangers) of Serbia and current World No.8 Flavia Penatta (Mumbai Masters) of Italy are some of the top foreigners in the tournament.

Apart from international male and female players, each team will also have an international legend as their playing captain. They will also include an Indian male player and a top ranked junior Indian girl and boy from each city.

This year, the CTL will see a total of 13 matches played over two weeks. The teams will be structured into two zones, each having three teams, where they will play each other in a home and away format.

The team winning the highest number of games in their respective zone will advance to the grand finale which is scheduled for December 6. The winners will take home a prize money of Rs.1 crore. The runner-up will get Rs.50 lakh.

"Our young players are going to be instrumental in building the future of tennis in India, and Champions Tennis League is very proud to associate with the best young juniors in the country," CTL managing director Vijay Amritraj said in a statement.

"Twelve juniors are selected basis their national ranking and on recommendation by the All India Tennis Association. I am delighted that through CTL, we are able to give some of our more talented youngsters a unique experience that not only helps them succeed in their field, but also serves as an opportunity so that they may go on and represent India across the world," he added.