Big Cricket League To Stream Worldwide As Shikhar Dhawan, Chris Gayle And Harbhajan Singh Join Action

Professional cricket is set to make a high-profile return to the National Capital Region as the Big Cricket League (BCL) gears up for its second season in Greater Noida.

Scheduled from June 3 to June 13, the 11-day T20 tournament will be hosted at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex and promises a mix of cricketing legends, aspiring players and international reach.

The tournament organisers are positioning Season 2 as a larger and more aggressive edition after the success of the inaugural campaign, with defending champions Mumbai Marines returning alongside five other franchise teams.

What makes the Big Cricket League different?

Unlike traditional franchise tournaments, the Big Cricket League is built around a Pro-Am structure that combines amateur cricketers with former international and IPL stars.

A total of 60 amateur players from across India will get the opportunity to compete alongside 18 former First-Class and IPL veterans and 36 international cricket icons. The format is designed to create direct exposure for emerging talent while giving fans the chance to watch former global stars in action once again.

Among the biggest names confirmed for Season 2 are Shikhar Dhawan, Chris Gayle, Harbhajan Singh, Ross Taylor, Thisara Perera and Tillakaratne Dilshan.

Tournament aims to blend entertainment with opportunity

The organisers believe the tournament can create a bridge between grassroots cricket and professional exposure.

Speaking on the league’s expansion, Dilip Vengsarkar, League Commissioner, Big Cricket League, said, “We are delighted to welcome EaseMyTrip back as the Title Sponsor for Season 2 of the Big Cricket League. Their continued association reflects the trust and momentum the league has built since its inaugural edition. At BCL, we are committed to creating a world-class cricketing platform that not only delivers high-quality entertainment but also gives aspiring cricketers to not only showcase their talent but also a rare opportunity to share the field with some of the biggest icons of the game.”

EaseMyTrip renews partnership with BCL

Travel-tech company EaseMyTrip has returned as the title sponsor for the second straight season, underlining the league’s commercial momentum.

Nishant Pitti, Founder & Chairman, EaseMyTrip, said, “Our journey with the Big Cricket League in Season 1 was both exciting and deeply rewarding. BCL has introduced a refreshing format that blends legendary cricketing names with inspiring grassroots talent, creating stories that truly resonate with fans across the country. Cricket and travel have always shared a strong connection, with fans travelling to cities to experience the energy of the game firsthand. As a travel-first brand, we are delighted to continue our association as Title Sponsor and look forward to being part of an even bigger and more exciting Season 2.”

Free stadium entry planned to attract local fans

In an effort to create a stronger fan atmosphere and improve accessibility, organisers have announced that entry to all matches will be free throughout the tournament.

The league also plans to significantly widen its international footprint this season. In India, matches will be telecast on Eurosport and streamed digitally on FanCode, while international syndication arrangements will broadcast games across more than 25 countries.

Puneet Singh, Chief Patron, Big Cricket League, said, “Season 2 of the Big Cricket League is set to be bigger in every aspect - from the level of competition and fan experience to broadcast reach and international engagement. With marquee legends, talented amateur cricketers, strong broadcast partners like Eurosport and FanCode, and trusted brands like EaseMyTrip continuing their journey with us, we are building a cricketing property that fans genuinely connect with. This season is not just about cricket -- it is about dreams, opportunity, and unforgettable moments.”

Why Season 2 could matter for Indian domestic cricket

The Big Cricket League arrives at a time when franchise-based cricket continues to dominate audience interest globally. By combining retired international stars with aspiring domestic players, the tournament is attempting to carve out a niche different from mainstream leagues.

For amateur players, the chance to share dressing rooms and match situations with experienced internationals could offer exposure that is otherwise difficult to access. For fans in NCR, the presence of globally recognised names and free stadium entry could help the tournament generate strong local engagement.

(With inputs from ANI)