Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 auction, Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) officially changed their name to Punjab Kings (PBKS).
Speaking on the same line, Punjab Kings co-owner Ness Wadia on Saturday (February 20) said the franchise needed to rebrand itself after so many years of the IPL and it was something they were considering since 2019.
"We just felt that we wanted to relook at things. We needed to rebrand and reinvent ourselves after so many years. As they say if something doesn't work, change it and try and get it working," Wadia told PTI in an exclusive chat.
"Kings XI Punjab had a reference to the playing XI. Punjab Kings is more inclusive and will resonate better with the fans."
"We had been thinking of a name change for the last couple of years. COVID came in 2020 so we put it on hold. We thought if we could do it at the big auction next year or the smaller auction this season, so finally decided to do it this year," he added.
With the COVID-19 situation improving in the country, the 2021 edition of IPL is likely to be held in the country.
Last year, the BCCI had to shift the tournament to UAE due to the pandemic.
"The UAE has had a huge amount of cases recently. India is safer at this point. We just need to make sure that strict protocols are in place, like we had in the UAE."
"Hopefully, some part of the stadiums will be filled with spectators. I don't see full crowds being allowed for the games. I am sure the right decision will be taken in due time. We are still two months away from the tournament," said Wadia.
The BCCI had given approval for 10-team IPL from 2022 during its Annual General Meeting (AGM) last year. Initially, there could be nine-teams before the event expands further.
"I don't know how nine will work, 10 is a good number. It is also good that they are expanding the brand. It also increases the fan base and more players get a chance to play the IPL," Wadia said.
Commenting on his team's purchases at the auction, PBKS co-owner said: "Anil and KL are quite happy about the players they have got. Now just they need to go out there and perform."
(With PTI inputs)
