Key architect of India's Airtel Rising Stars initiative, Bharat Bambawale, said that "there is a tremendous interest among sponsors and brands to invite int'l football clubs to play matches before Indian fans and promote football in the cricket-crazy country," according to the PTI. Bambawale said, "There is a lot of interest shown by sponsors and brands not only to bring English Premier League teams but also La Liga and Serie A teams to play matches before Indian fans to promote football in India." Bambawale also said that equally, the "clubs have also shown interest to visit India as they have been approaching sponsors and brands like Airtel." He added, "Leading international club stars playing before Indian football fans will help attract youth to the sport" (PTI, 9/16).
CASH REWARD: In other news, 12 players of India's Nehru Cup winning team, who represent various city-based I-League football clubs, were awarded Rs 50,000 ($921) each during a celebration ceremony by the state government in Kolkata on Sunday. The 12 players consisted of six from East Bengal, three from Monhun Bagan, two from United SC and one from Pailan Arrows (PTI, 9/16).
