Hailing IPL for successfully creating loyal followers, India tennis star Leander Paes today said the city-based franchise league is the way forward to popularise other sports, which need to replicate the model of the popular cricket tournament.
In the USA, city-based franchise tennis tournament -- World Team Tennis (WTT) -- is extremely popular and Paes said something on those lines should be introduced in Indian tennis as well as other sports in the country.
"IPL is close relevant of the World Team Tennis (WTT). The stadia are packed with fans for entire 21 days. The format of the tournament makes it interesting for the viewers. Also there are great players participating in the league. That is what IPL has been successful in doing here and we have to learn from it to replicate it in other sports," said Paes, who plays for Washington Kastles franchise in WTT.
Paes was speaking at the Star Sports India Pro Leagues Forum on the subject of "Growing the Club Culture".
"Cricket may not be the fastest sport nor the most athletic one but it has successfully managed to get the community involved with it. Linking franchises with major cities of the country, the IPL has been able get supporters who identify with their teams. They believe they are a part of the team," the 14-time Grand Slam title winner said.
"The focus of a league is also very important. It should be an entire family packages. People from all age group should be attracted to it. It should offer people something tangible they believe in.
