Different franchises come up with some out of box ideas:
In this COVID-19 pandemic, nothing is normal. And it affects the 2020 IPL also, which has started on 19th September in the UAE. Here all the teams are staying in their bio-secure bubble and playing matches without fans, which was always acted as a very important motivational factor for the players.
That’s why different franchises come up with some out of box ideas. So, let’s look at those…
Mumbai Indians
Defending champions, Mumbai Indians took the lead and launched different virtual fan engagement programs to provide a wholesome experience for their fans.
‘MI Live’: Through this, fans can see the live studio show of Mumbai Indians. The Mumbai Indians’ specific live show invites fans to get participated in their pre, mid, and post-match shows. Their 14 matches are live-streamed by the official YouTube channel of Mumbai Indians, Twitter account, and Facebook page.
‘Paltan Play’: it is a second screen experience game, in which you can play and compete against each other on the match days of Mumbai Indians. MI match can be analyzed by fans through that and also you can predict the runs and wickets fall for that match.
‘Virtual Wankhede’: Through this supporters can connect over video conferencing and watch the match.
‘MI Buddy’: This is a very innovative AI-enabled Whatsapp bot which will give all pieces of information related to MI. Fans can see live scores, player statistics, playing XI, player GIFs, MI TV videos, etc.
Kolkata Knight Riders
KKR, the two times champion changed the slogan for their fans titled –‘Tu Fan Nahi Toofan Hai’.. it is a tribute to all the KKR fans from KKR players across the whole world for appreciating their effort and for supporting them.
‘KKR Fan Cam’: This is a live video on daily basis on Facebook/Instagram from the team training session to keep the fans updated about the activities and preparations of the team.
‘KKR Fan Tank’: Through this, the team will engage with selected fans and give them chance to meet the coaches/players over a virtual call.
‘KKR Super Over’: This is a gaming platform, which gives you a chance to select players from the current team and play the game against the best XI of ‘Knight Legends’.
‘Knight Club’: This concentrates on digital engagement and gratifying the fans in a special way. This year fans can join Knight Club and can get their new membership number, while their total points will be sent at the end of the IPL season to them. Also, they can redeem these points in 2021.
Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals have announced some innovative ideas which will allow their fan followings to cheer them and stay connected.
‘DC Watch parties’: This tries to recreate the experience of a stadium. From a huge number of submissions, nearly 25-50 fans will be chosen based on their support for the team. Then these fans can watch the match together and also can hold discussions on the match and many more.
‘Virtual banner parties’: This will give 2500 fans and artists from the ‘DC Toli’ to virtually meet to give ideas or create banners for the DC team.
Royal Challengers Bangalore:
Captain Kohli led RCB dedicated a new anthem for the team to their numerous fan followings just before the session.
RCB is allowing their fans to see the practice sessions and preparations of the team through their official mobile app.
