There was a lot of talk about Harsha Bhogle making a comeback to the TV Studios for this year’s IPL, but unfortunately for the veteran commentator, he has not been named in the team of 20 commentators declared by the BCCI on Tuesday.
Prasana Krishnan, EVP and business head, sports cluster of Sony Pictures Networks India, had hinted in March that Harsha will make a comeback in all likelihood:
It’s our intention to get him back in the studio. However, we have some paperwork formalities left but in all likelihood we may see him doing commentary in the upcoming IPL.Prasana Krishnan, EVP and Business Head, Sports Cluster Sony Pictures Networks India
But, for some reason, Bhogle, who was ousted from the commentary team last year, has been left out of the team this year as well.
Former Australia captain Michael Clarke will be joining an elite panel of commentators comprising Kevin Pietersen and Sunil Gavaskar for the upcoming 10th edition of IPL.
Commentators will be traveling across the country to lend their perspective on the game over the course of 47 days across 10 different venues.
Sanjay Manjrekar, who has been quite the IPL veteran is excited about the grand 10th edition.
It doesn’t get any bigger and better than this. I have always loved this tournament and this year it is going to be no different with the IPL getting into its 10th year. One can expect a lot of surprises and some adrenaline pumping action on the field. Can’t wait to set the ball rolling.Sanjay Manjrekar
Clarke, who was a part of the commentary panel in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar series is looking forward to an enjoyable IPL journey.
I have been a part of this tournament as a player and this year I am eager to get behind the microphone and have some fun. Love this place, love the tournament and it is great to be a part of this commentary team.Michael Clarke
"It was a great initiative by the BCCI in 2015 to include women cricketers into the commentary panel," Lisa Sthalekar, former Australia captain said.
I had a great time discussing the game with Anjum Chopra, Isa Guha, Melanie Jones and the rest of the commentators and I expect this year’s stint with the IPL to be even better.Lisa Sthalekar, Former Australia Captain
Kevin Pietersen, on once again joining the IPL bandwagon, said:
It’s always great to be in India and playing in or commentating on all of the explosive action that personifies the IPL. Coming back this time as a commentator is going to be an experience I will cherish for a long time.Kevin Pietersen
(With inputs from PTI)
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)