Let’s not reach a hasty conclusion so early
We must understand that a lot of news is going around about IPL, which is not necessarily true. Let’s not take every statement made by any individual and news reports at face value. IPL is all about making money, through a series of cricket matches and they will certainly do something which will attract money into the game. At this moment nothing is clear about the next IPL. Whether the night parties would be stopped or cheerleaders should be done away with, will beclear only once the new season will start. So talking about such matters so early is of no use.
Gulshan Grover, actor
Players will enjoy at nightclubs anyway
IPL has become a global tournament just like the World Cup. It attracts an audience across the world. From the point of view of the audience, it will not affect them if there is no party for the players, because people want good performance on the field. So, definitely it is unquestionable for the survival of IPL. These matches are hectic and back-to-back. Due to everyday celebrations and parties sportspersons get a buffer to relax.
Even when there were no parties, players would go to a nightclub or some other places to let their hair down. So they will not be affected. As far as cheerleaders are concerned they are harmless elements of the game and whether they are present or not, again it is not going to impact IPL matches.
Amarr Upadhyay, actor
Masses want popular events
IPL cannot be called a sports competition because it is a mega event based around cricket. Therefore, without glamour it will lose its audience. It will become like any other cricketing competition. As for the night parties, I don’t think they will have an adverse effect on players. But we can reduce the frequency of parties, so that it doesn’t affect players’ performance. It is a decision of the team management. Also, the glamour, parties and cheerleaders are an added flavour of the game. All these things make IPL popular. The game may have taken a backseat, but this is what masses want.Abhishek Gautam, senior executive
Showbiz shouldn’t play big role
The new IPL chief Chirayu Amin seems capable and he will maintain the image of IPL. I agree with him that glitz and glamour don’t play a big role. Everything should be in limit and it should be done keeping sensibilities of players and public in mind. Many times the parties act as a motivational aspect and cheer the players after a tiring match. They get to mingle with each other and this acts as a stress buster, so parties shouldn’t be discontinued completely. If the IPL has a new chief then he would surely bring in a few changes and he must have been appointed considering these things.
Abdul Qureshi,systems executive
It can survive without glamour
Cricket doesn’t need to survive on glamour quotient of corporate tycoons or Hindi cinema stars. So, if the thrill is taken out from the IPL next year, there is nothing to worry. Cricket fans will continue to watch the format of the game and cheer for their team. However, IPL nights should be stopped as it affects the players’ fitness and diverts their focus. Also with post match parties the likelihood of unwanted elements like bookies and match fixers will come into the game. Cheerleaders are good as they add motivation and attraction for spectators, but they will not matter much, if removed. Ankush Sharma, senior executive
Frills attract those not interested
I think Modi is very much in the picture, despite being placed under suspension. IPL is associated with showbiz, thrills, star attractions and cheerleaders. It would become too dreary without the parties and other elements. There are many who aren't cricket lovers but still would enjoy an IPL match because of the thrill and various elements associated with the game. The whole game sans cheerleaders wouldn't appeal to me. IPL has an international appeal and has a huge fan following as it is more than a mere game. A few changes in the format are fine, but total revamp would make it lose its charm.
Krutika Jain, student
Cheerleaders are part of game
Allure and charms are important elements. They have contributed to the success of all three seasons of IPL. It’s not just a game, it’s entertainment too. Actors, models have contributed to making it a wholesome package. I don’t think any of the on-field elements should be stopped; although, if the governing body wants they can put some restrictions. Also, the controversy about cheerleaders is unnecessary. We are marching in the 21st century, and pretend to have values of the 18th century. Cheerleaders are part of the game in foreign countries; but there is no controversy or hullabaloo.
Hemanshu Makatia, head media planner
Daily parties are not required
It will definitely survive and will continue to draw crowds. If the league is governed properly, everything will fall in place. IPL night parties should be stopped and be allowed after the tournament. A party after every match makes viewers feel that it is a money making business. In fact some players may simply look forward to the revelry rather than focussing on the game. Cheerleaders are doing their job, and in their own way, have drawn crowds to watch the matches. However, the fact that some elements are fooling the public and making money on the sly is vulgar to our sensibilities. Suheil Merchant, PR professional

