Yuga Sports and Entertainment, a prominent name in the sports industry, has taken the stage to unveil the logos and jerseys of the eight teams gearing up for the inaugural season of Pro Roll Ball—a highly anticipated sports extravaganza. The unveiling ceremony, held at ITC Grand Central in Mumbai, was a thrilling event that brought together franchise owners, players, and enthusiasts alike.
The Pro Roll Ball league marks a significant milestone as the world’s first international league for Roll Ball—a sport that originated in India and has now gained global recognition. Notably, this season will witness participation from international players hailing from 17 countries. The action-packed 15-day tournament is scheduled to take place from November 20 to December 3, 2023.
The event was graced by a press conference led by Siddharth Mehta, the Founder and CEO of Yuga Sports and Entertainment, the driving force behind the league’s inception and organization.
The festivities commenced with franchise owners stepping onto the stage, donning the distinctive jerseys adorned with their team logos. This exciting spectacle set the tone for the day’s events, which included a rigorous player auction process. During the auction, teams vied for the best athletes, ensuring that they assemble a formidable roster for the upcoming competition. The event witnessed the presence of not only players but also coaches, mentors, and managers who have qualified for the league.
The player auction was divided into three categories: A, B, and C (International Players). Category A featured players who have represented India in international tournaments within the last five years or participated in three consecutive national tournaments during the same period. Category B consisted of players who have taken part in three consecutive national tournaments within the last five years or attended any India team qualifying camp. The base prices for these categories were set at Rs. 1.5 lakh and Rs. 1 lakh, respectively.
The Pro Roll Ball League has garnered immense attention, with 128 players nominated for auction across all categories. Notably, foreign players from countries like Iran, Belarus, Oman, Egypt, Kenya, Senegal, Poland, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia, England, Argentina, France, and Brazil added an international flair to the event.
Speaking at the event, Siddharth Mehta expressed his excitement for the league’s inception and its potential impact on the sporting landscape. He highlighted the significance of introducing an indigenous sport to the international arena and aimed to elevate the league to a top-tier sporting event in the country. Mehta expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the event.
Yuga Sports and Entertainment’s acquisition of rights from the Asian Roll Ball Federation has paved the way for the league’s launch, marking a crucial step in the sport’s growth. With an estimated valuation of over INR 180 crore, the league’s value is set to soar to INR 1000+ crores within the next five years, showcasing its potential to become a major sporting property.
Anticipation is already building for the next season of the Pro Roll Ball League, scheduled for April-May 2024. The matches will be broadcast live on television and various OTT platforms, ensuring that fans across the nation can enjoy the thrilling contests from the comfort of their homes.
Invented by Raju Dabhade in Pune and played across more than 60 countries, Roll Ball is a dynamic sport that combines roller skating and handball skills. Players use roller skates to dribble, pass, and shoot the ball into the opponent’s goal post, resulting in an engaging game that tests both athleticism and strategic acumen.
As the league readies for its first-ever season, the convergence of talent, innovation, and sportsmanship promises an unforgettable experience for players and fans alike. The league’s success story adds a new chapter to the vibrant landscape of Indian sports.
