World Series Hockey Reveals First Franchise Chennai Cheetahs

Newly established World Series Hockey, ed a joint initiative of the Indian Hockey Federation and Nimbus Sport, see has officially announced its first franchise – Chennai Cheetahs.

The team is owned by Chennai Sports Organisers Pvt Ltd (CSO), here which is promoted by  LT Nanwani, owner of Jubilee Granites.

Jubilee Granites is a mining company in South India that exclusively owns products like ‘Black’ and ‘Black Galaxy’ granite.

WSH will name the remaining seven franchisees over the next few days, the organisers have stated.

While, the financial details of the deal have not been disclosed, sources familiar with the deal said the franchise would invest Rs 120-140 million each year for a period of 15 years.

Nanwani said, “It is a matter of great pride to own a franchise in the prestigious World Series Hockey. Chennai has always had a strong sports culture and we are committed to strengthen the talent pool of hockey players. Extensive research has revealed that speed is a key attribute of the sport and hence our team is going to be aptly called Chennai Cheetahs.”

“India has a strong hockey legacy and we will strive towards bringing the glory back. This is the first step for CSO and in the near future, we will expand our sports business by investing in multiple sports to create greater local connect with the fans,” he added.

Nimbus Sport COO Yannick Colaco said, “WSH has been very selective in identifying franchise owners who are passionate about hockey and share the common vision of creating a strong and viable ecosystem for the sport in India. We are delighted to welcome Mr. Nanwani to the WSH family. His deep rooted understanding of the local Chennai market coupled with his keen interest in hockey will definitely create a strong fan base in the catchment area.”

The WSH is schediuled to be held from17 December to 22 January, 2012 and will involve 200 players, Indian and international, who will compete in a total of 61 matches.

All the matches will be broadcasted on Neo Sports, whose parent company is a sister concern of Nimbus Sport.