Even the Indian Super League (ISL) initiators would have not expected the success and popularity it has received going just into its second year. With Indians showing their passion and support to the game of football, here are five things that can be considered to improve the standard of the league and also the game.
1. Timing: ISL is now being conducted in the last quarter of the calendar. As most people are already hooked to European leagues, which enters its most interested and intense stage during this period, it will be suitable for a June-July schedule to attract more fans globally. Moreover, players from top clubs can be hired, raising both the popularity of league and standard of game. This period in addition has no disturbance from cricket, which undoubtedly is the most popular game in country.
2. Tie-ups: First season winners, Atletico de Kolkata were on different level compared to all other teams in the season. Their bond with the Spanish giants Atletico Madrid was reflected in their performance. It will be great if other clubs try attaching themselves to bigger giants of the game. Who knows? There may be some potentials who can get chance to play for those giants through this.
3. Improvement of grounds: Venues of the matches are not up to the international standards. Even many overseas players pointed to this last season. Though it has been better this season, there is much more to be done. More practice courts, gyms, relaxing centres need to constructed near the stadiums to make overseas players feel being home.
4. Pre-season tours: This may be a luxury as of now, but it is certainly needed in near future. If not international tours directly, teams can take steps to play in smaller cities within the country. They can arrange camps to cultivate local talents, arrange interactions of local lads to superstars, etc. This makes the league to develop stronger roots and hence giving way for gigantic future.
5. Merging with I-league: Talks on this are already on cards. If it gets a positive nod, then Indian football surely will go to better heights in future. This makes the league more commercial and also gives a wide pool to hunt talent for the ultimate blue jersey.
Things will, and should improve. Until then let’s enjoy India footballing and let’s make more Indians to take on the game of football!
