The much-anticipated team auction for the second season of the Grand Prix Badminton League (GPBL) concluded on Saturday with record online bids. The auction, which featured bids for 10 teams from a choice of 13 cities and states in India, witnessed an unprecedented level of excitement and intense competition.
The team auction took place on an online platform, offering a convenient and inclusive opportunity for team owners and badminton enthusiasts from all over India to participate. Bids poured in for the coveted team franchises, resulting in intense bidding battles as team owners strategized and competed to secure their favorite city teams.
Eight teams were successfully sold during the auction, while decisions regarding the remaining two teams will be made soon. The Bengaluru franchise received the highest fee, closely followed by Chennai. Other teams that were sold include Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune, Kerala, Gujarat (Ahmedabad), and Delhi.
With the team auction concluded, the focus now shifts to the upcoming Players’ Auction, which is scheduled to take place in the third week of this month. A total of 453 players, including 67 international players, have registered for the Players’ draft. Approximately 150 players will be included in the draft, where teams will have the opportunity to further strengthen their squads.
Prashanth Reddy, Commissioner of GPBL, expressed his enthusiasm for the overwhelming response and level of engagement witnessed during the online Team Auction. He emphasized the growing interest and support for badminton and expressed confidence that Season 2 of GPBL will be an exhilarating affair, showcasing outstanding talent and fierce competition.
GPBL, India’s premier badminton league, is set to make a grand comeback in August with its highly anticipated second season. The league aims to promote and popularize the sport in the country by bringing together top-notch badminton players from India and around the world. It offers a platform for players to showcase their skills and entertain fans through thrilling action.
As the preparations for Season 2 continue, fans eagerly await the commencement of the GPBL. The league promises to deliver high-quality badminton matches, providing an immersive experience for both players and spectators. The success of the team auction highlights the growing popularity of the sport in India, and it is expected to further elevate the profile of badminton in the country.
With top players and intense competition on the horizon, all eyes are on the upcoming Players’ Auction to see which teams secure the most promising talent. The GPBL Season 2 promises to be a spectacle for badminton enthusiasts, and the excitement continues to build as the league draws nearer. Fans await the unveiling of the final team rosters, ready to cheer on their favorite teams and witness the thrilling action on the badminton court.
