Tiigers of Kolkata opened their Indian Street Premier League (ISPL) season 3 campaign with Owner Aksha Kamboj and Bollywood superstar Saif Ali Khan at the auction table. The Kolkata connection became an early highlight, with Aksha Kamboj emphasising Saif's personal ties to the city and to cricket, setting the foundation for the team's renewed vision this season. "Saif's father played cricket, and his mother's roots are from Bengal, so the city suits him perfectly, " Aksha Kamboj said, explaining the rationale behind Saif's association with the franchise, as per a press release. The ISPL Season 1 champions entered the auction with a purse of Rs 1.39 crore. They retained all-rounder Bhavesh Pawar for Rs 11.05 lakh and made Saroj Paramanik, their biggest signing at Rs 20.06 lakh to solidify the top order early. With a measured, value-focused strategy, Tiigers of Kolkata strengthened key areas with additions such as Krishna Gawli, Mahesh Nangude, Pavan Kene, and Vivek Shelar, assembling a squad built for the pace and unpredictability of T10 cricket. Aksha Kamboj, Executive Chairperson, Aspect Global Ventures, and Owner Tiigers of Kolkata, said, "The mindset is unity, victory, cooperation, and building strong camaraderie. We are going to try our best. In sport, someone wins, and someone loses, but what matters is giving your 100 per cent. Our approach since Season 1 has always been the same -- make your name, make your life, make your dream come true. Tiigers of Kolkata will support you through the platform ISPL has provided. These players are incredibly lucky to be a part of it, and they should make the most of this opportunity. It's a beautiful podium today for talent to shine. As we say, 'Ek Team, Ek Junoon -- Tiigers ki Dhoom.' That belief is the heartbeat of this franchise."&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a> Saif Ali Khan, Celebrity Co-Owner, ToK, said: "Cricket and Bollywood have always had a connection. Many other sports are growing, and that's fantastic, but cricket and movies have always shared a special bond in India -- it is part of our culture. When Tiigers of Kolkata approached me, it felt natural. My mother is from Kolkata, my father was a cricketer, so the city and the sport both feel personal. Cricket begins at home -- everyone starts with gully cricket -- and tennis-ball cricket is one of the best ways to learn. This league will help discover young talent, and Kolkata brings its own charm and attitude to it... a real *'Shakkti Kka Swag'."&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a> Tiigers of Kolkata also completed their mandatory Under-19 signings -- Ankit Yadav and Himanshu Patil -- in line with ISPL's commitment to nurturing emerging talent, according to the release. The franchise continues its Season 1 philosophy of giving young, street-bred cricketers a pathway into professional sport. The Indian Street Premier League is a T10 tennis-ball tournament designed to elevate gully and grassroots talent. For Tiigers of Kolkata, the league aligns seamlessly with their fast, fearless, and community-rooted approach, backed by owners who share deep personal and cultural ties to both cricket and the city they proudly represent. Tiigers of Kolkata's Season 3 Picks (So Far)&nbsp;Saif Ali (Batsman) - Rs 23.65 lakh &nbsp;Saroj Paramanik (All-Rounder) - Rs 20.60 lakhRajat Mundhe (Batsman) - Rs 15.05 lakhBhavesh Pawar (All-Rounder) - Retained pre-auction for Rs 11.05 lakhKrishna Gawli (Batsman) - Rs 8.5 lakhMahesh Nangude (Batsman) - Rs 7.5 lakhVivek Shelar (Bowler) - Rs 7 lakhPavan Kene (Batsman) -Rs 6.5 lakhAnkit Yadav (Bowler, U19) - Rs 6.5 lakhKaran More (Batsman) - Rs 5.75 lakhVivek Mohanan (All-Rounder) - Rs 4.40 lakh&nbsp;&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Kolkata connection became an early highlight, with Aksha Kamboj emphasising Saif's personal ties to the city and to cricket, setting the foundation for the team's renewed vision this season.

Tiigers of Kolkata opened their Indian Street Premier League (ISPL) season 3 campaign with Owner Aksha Kamboj and Bollywood superstar Saif Ali Khan at the auction table. The Kolkata connection became an early highlight, with Aksha Kamboj emphasising Saif's personal ties to the city and to cricket, setting the foundation for the team's renewed vision this season. "Saif's father played cricket, and his mother's roots are from Bengal, so the city suits him perfectly, " Aksha Kamboj said, explaining the rationale behind Saif's association with the franchise, as per a press release. The ISPL Season 1 champions entered the auction with a purse of Rs 1.39 crore. They retained all-rounder Bhavesh Pawar for Rs 11.05 lakh and made Saroj Paramanik, their biggest signing at Rs 20.06 lakh to solidify the top order early. With a measured, value-focused strategy, Tiigers of Kolkata strengthened key areas with additions such as Krishna Gawli, Mahesh Nangude, Pavan Kene, and Vivek Shelar, assembling a squad built for the pace and unpredictability of T10 cricket. Aksha Kamboj, Executive Chairperson, Aspect Global Ventures, and Owner Tiigers of Kolkata, said, "The mindset is unity, victory, cooperation, and building strong camaraderie. We are going to try our best. In sport, someone wins, and someone loses, but what matters is giving your 100 per cent. Our approach since Season 1 has always been the same -- make your name, make your life, make your dream come true. Tiigers of Kolkata will support you through the platform ISPL has provided. These players are incredibly lucky to be a part of it, and they should make the most of this opportunity. It's a beautiful podium today for talent to shine. As we say, 'Ek Team, Ek Junoon -- Tiigers ki Dhoom.' That belief is the heartbeat of this franchise." ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Saif Ali Khan, Celebrity Co-Owner, ToK, said: "Cricket and Bollywood have always had a connection. Many other sports are growing, and that's fantastic, but cricket and movies have always shared a special bond in India -- it is part of our culture. When Tiigers of Kolkata approached me, it felt natural. My mother is from Kolkata, my father was a cricketer, so the city and the sport both feel personal. Cricket begins at home -- everyone starts with gully cricket -- and tennis-ball cricket is one of the best ways to learn. This league will help discover young talent, and Kolkata brings its own charm and attitude to it... a real *'Shakkti Kka Swag'." ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Tiigers of Kolkata also completed their mandatory Under-19 signings -- Ankit Yadav and Himanshu Patil -- in line with ISPL's commitment to nurturing emerging talent, according to the release. The franchise continues its Season 1 philosophy of giving young, street-bred cricketers a pathway into professional sport. The Indian Street Premier League is a T10 tennis-ball tournament designed to elevate gully and grassroots talent. For Tiigers of Kolkata, the league aligns seamlessly with their fast, fearless, and community-rooted approach, backed by owners who share deep personal and cultural ties to both cricket and the city they proudly represent. Tiigers of Kolkata's Season 3 Picks (So Far) Saif Ali (Batsman) - Rs 23.65 lakh Saroj Paramanik (All-Rounder) - Rs 20.60 lakh Rajat Mundhe (Batsman) - Rs 15.05 lakh Bhavesh Pawar (All-Rounder) - Retained pre-auction for Rs 11.05 lakh Krishna Gawli (Batsman) - Rs 8.5 lakh Mahesh Nangude (Batsman) - Rs 7.5 lakh Vivek Shelar (Bowler) - Rs 7 lakh Pavan Kene (Batsman) -Rs 6.5 lakh Ankit Yadav (Bowler, U19) - Rs 6.5 lakh Karan More (Batsman) - Rs 5.75 lakh Vivek Mohanan (All-Rounder) - Rs 4.40 lakh Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Kolkata connection became an early highlight, with Aksha Kamboj emphasising Saif's personal ties to the city and to cricket, setting the foundation for the team's renewed vision this season.

ISPL Season 3: Saif Ali Khan, Aksha Kamboj join Tiigers of Kolkata's auction table

It was an action-packed weekend in the Indian Supercross Racing League (ISRL) as top riders from around the world competed in the world’s first franchise-based Supercross league. While BB Racing Team took the spot, it was their rider, Hunter Schlosser, who earned the applause. Riding a 250cc International Class Honda, showcasing impeccable control and speed, Schlosser won the race, earning high praise. Schlosser spoke exclusively to WION as he opened up on his latest feat.&nbsp;Representing the USA, Schlosser has built an impressive track record in the 250cc International class and made his presence felt in India. So far in 2025, he has delivered standout wins at the Pikes Peak Supercross Open Pro and Greeley Supercross events across both 250A and 450A classes. While speaking to WION’s Aditya Pimpale, he further shed light on the journey and how he prepares for races on tracks that are challenging for riders.&nbsp;Question: What were your first thoughts as you were set to compete in the Indian Supercross Racing League?Well, I was always looking forward to competing in India. I know it is a very passionate nation for sports and having to race in front of these people gives me extra energy. The people here are passionate about sports and the roar I experienced during the race it was something I will never forget.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-players-with-most-runs-in-women-s-odi-world-cup-history-debbie-hockley-mithali-raj-janette-brittin-charlotte-edwards-suzie-bates-1757606297874">From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history</a>&nbsp;Question: How was it racing on the tracks in India?The tracks were very good and had it own set of challenges where I had to get the best out of me. I mean, that's the beauty of racing, that's what makes it so fun is those challenges, you know, there's always that little extra pressure being up front, but it's also that much more fun having.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-all-you-need-to-know-about-indian-women-s-team-schedule-squad-fixtures-and-more-1758556378933">Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more</a>&nbsp;Question: Did you feel the pressure when you were trailing in the final race?Yes, there was pressure and I actually stalled the bike at one point, I slid, I was totally sideways a lot of times and he even got me that one time, but I found a new line and just intuition right and a little bit of luck. To be honest, it's hard to have the right strategy, because just depending on how the race starts, it can dictate everything.&nbsp;Question: &nbsp;It was your debut in India that started with a win, how comforting it is and also some thoughts on the crowd that turned out?It was super exciting to ride here in India; they have one of the best tracks and overall it was fun. I mean, starting on a winning note is something you want as an athlete, no matter what sports you play. I made sure I was prepared for it and gave it my best shot.For the crowd, yes, they were fantastic and made me feel as if it were my home. I thank all the fans and their support for coming out and cheering for me throughout the race. I owe them for this win.

Hunter Schlosser has delivered standout wins at the Pikes Peak Supercross Open Pro and Greeley Supercross events across both 250A and 450A classes. While speaking to WION’s Aditya Pimpale, he sheded light on the journey and how he prepares for races on tracks that are challenging for riders.

It was an action-packed weekend in the Indian Supercross Racing League (ISRL) as top riders from around the world competed in the world’s first franchise-based Supercross league. While BB Racing Team took the spot, it was their rider, Hunter Schlosser, who earned the applause. Riding a 250cc International Class Honda, showcasing impeccable control and speed, Schlosser won the race, earning high praise. Schlosser spoke exclusively to WION as he opened up on his latest feat. Representing the USA, Schlosser has built an impressive track record in the 250cc International class and made his presence felt in India. So far in 2025, he has delivered standout wins at the Pikes Peak Supercross Open Pro and Greeley Supercross events across both 250A and 450A classes. While speaking to WION’s Aditya Pimpale, he further shed light on the journey and how he prepares for races on tracks that are challenging for riders. Question: What were your first thoughts as you were set to compete in the Indian Supercross Racing League? Well, I was always looking forward to competing in India. I know it is a very passionate nation for sports and having to race in front of these people gives me extra energy. The people here are passionate about sports and the roar I experienced during the race it was something I will never forget. ALSO READ | From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history Question: How was it racing on the tracks in India? The tracks were very good and had it own set of challenges where I had to get the best out of me. I mean, that's the beauty of racing, that's what makes it so fun is those challenges, you know, there's always that little extra pressure being up front, but it's also that much more fun having. ALSO READ | Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more Question: Did you feel the pressure when you were trailing in the final race? Yes, there was pressure and I actually stalled the bike at one point, I slid, I was totally sideways a lot of times and he even got me that one time, but I found a new line and just intuition right and a little bit of luck. To be honest, it's hard to have the right strategy, because just depending on how the race starts, it can dictate everything. Question: It was your debut in India that started with a win, how comforting it is and also some thoughts on the crowd that turned out? It was super exciting to ride here in India; they have one of the best tracks and overall it was fun. I mean, starting on a winning note is something you want as an athlete, no matter what sports you play. I made sure I was prepared for it and gave it my best shot. For the crowd, yes, they were fantastic and made me feel as if it were my home. I thank all the fans and their support for coming out and cheering for me throughout the race. I owe them for this win.

Hunter Schlosser has delivered standout wins at the Pikes Peak Supercross Open Pro and Greeley Supercross events across both 250A and 450A classes. While speaking to WION’s Aditya Pimpale, he sheded light on the journey and how he prepares for races on tracks that are challenging for riders.

Exclusive | 'I was always looking forward to competing in India': Hunter Schlosser

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