Dragons’ mentor Ashwin will be hoping for a winning start.
| Photo Credit: G. KARTHIKEYAN
The project which began when Chennai Super Kings was away from the den is set to turn 10. The Tamil Nadu Premier League, launched in 2016 as the TNCA’s pet event, is on the verge of a milestone after having dealt with several challenges in this decade-long ride.
Many franchises changed hands, the Covid-19 pandemic landed a painful blow, and finances proved to be an issue at different levels, but TNPL kept finding a way to carry on. TNCA secretary U. Bhagwandas Rao swelled with pride on the eve of the season-opener. “It is great that we have been able to sustain this long. But we need to find creative ways to attract more audience,” Bhagwandas said on Monday.
To set the ball rolling at the NPR College Ground here on Tuesday, the tournament organiser has opted for a re-match of last edition’s final — defending champion iDream Tiruppur Tamizhans will take on ‘home side’ Dindigul Dragons. The R. Sai Kishore-led Tamizhans have retained the nucleus of the squad that secured the team’s maiden crown. Possessing a bowling attack packed with experience and variety is a big plus.
Dragons, meanwhile, may be in for a tougher test. With former skipper R. Ashwin no longer part of the playing set-up and Varun Chakaravarthy currently unavailable for selection due to an injury, B. Indrajith’s men could be pushed to find a new formula for success.
Chepauk Super Gillies, the most decorated franchise with four trophies, will be eager to recreate their glorious past under the leadership of N. Jagadeesan. Two-time victor Kovai Kings, which will compete as Vida Kovai Kings following an ownership change, will primarily target the playoffs, a stage it reached in four of the last five seasons.
Trichy Grand Cholas, Salem Spartans, Nellai Royal Kings and Madurai Panthers will return with renewed vigour after struggling for large parts of the previous iteration.
Although the upcoming campaign has often been described as a season of celebration, the competition will be restricted to only two venues — the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium being the other. Regardless, riveting action is on the cards.
Tuesday’s match: iDream Tiruppur Tamizhans vs. Dindigul Dragons.
Published – August 03, 2026 09:30 pm IST
