The Indian Premier League (IPL) has transformed into a global sports phenomenon since its inception in 2008, emerging as the world’s second-largest sports league in terms of media rights and the premier cricket tournament across the globe. Amidst the glitz and glamour of this cash-rich league, Bollywood celebrities seized the opportunity to invest in and associate with various franchises, recognizing both the entertainment and business potential it held. Among these Bollywood figures, Akshay Kumar’s involvement with the Delhi Capitals (then Daredevils) stands out as a tale of sacrifice and dedication that played a crucial role in rescuing the team from financial turmoil.
The formation of the IPL raised eyebrows initially, but its rapid growth soon silenced the skeptics. Bollywood luminaries like Shahrukh Khan, Preity Zinta, and Shilpa Shetty took the plunge by associating with franchises such as Kolkata Knight Riders, Punjab Kings, and Rajasthan Royals respectively. The marriage of cricket and entertainment saw Bollywood stars not only invest monetarily but also lend their star power to enhance the brand image of their respective teams.
In an innovative move, Delhi Capitals secured a three-year deal with Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar in 2009. Under this agreement, Akshay was to create promotional content, participate in meet and greet events, and make appearances at corporate gatherings to bolster the team’s brand value. The deal aimed to leverage Akshay’s popularity and charisma to enhance Delhi Capitals’ visibility and fan engagement.
However, the path was not without its challenges. After the season concluded, Delhi Capitals found themselves facing significant financial losses. The financial model designed around Akshay Kumar’s involvement appeared to have backfired, leaving the franchise in a precarious situation. Amrit Mathur, the former Chief Operating Officer of Delhi Capitals, shed light on the team’s dire financial predicament in his book “Pitchside: My Life in Indian Cricket.”
Mathur revealed that despite the initial optimism, the team struggled to effectively capitalize on Akshay Kumar’s association. Confronted with mounting financial troubles, the team had to seek a way out of the contract, which did not have an apparent exit clause. The situation seemed dire, and seeking assistance from Akshay Kumar became the only option.
Amidst the financial turmoil, Amrit Mathur approached Akshay Kumar with the team’s predicament. In a heartfelt conversation, Mathur explained the dire financial situation, uncertain how the star would react to the news. Akshay’s response, however, exemplified his selflessness and commitment to the team’s well-being.
Mathur explained, “Akshay’s contract had no exit, and it was a big contract. The last option for us was to appeal for mercy, and I decided to meet him. I went to his vanity and hesitantly told him, ‘Sir, we are suffering financially’, and he, in a sympathetic voice, said, ‘No problem ji. If it’s not working, let’s close it.Isko khatam kar dete hain (let us end this). I asked him about the contract clauses, and he replied, ”Koi baat nahin, main lawyer ko bol dunga (No problem, I will tell the lawyer’).
