The Premier League has entered into a strategic agreement with Indian Super League organizers "ahead of the inaugural edition of the competition which is set to kick-off in September," according to Dev Trehan of SKY SPORTS. The partnership "is designed to help nurture and develop the Indian league as well as the eight franchise clubs that are expected to participate." Premier League chiefs "will also play a role in establishing club governance, shaping the brand, fan engagement and defining anti-corruption and anti-doping policies for the ISL." The Indian Super League "is a joint venture between IMG-Reliance and the All India Football Federation in conjunction with Star India." Premier League CEO Richard Scudamore said, “This will see both organizations work together and share knowledge in several key areas including player development, refereeing, marketing and promotion" (SKY SPORTS, 6/22).
The PTI reported through the alliance, the ISL "will help Premier League and its clubs in staging football matches and assist in other business development initiatives in India." This will encourage exchange programs "and partnership building between clubs of two leagues." The ISL and Premier League "will also cross-promote football coverage on Star India's platform to the growing Indian fan base" (PTI, 6/22).
