The ISL continues to be one of the most popular tournaments. It provides young, budding talent with good exposure, as well as an opportunity for foreign players to inspire them. In its heyday, its promoter and founder, Nita Ambani, gave her best to popularise it.
What is most disappointing is that fixtures are not advertised, nor do local dailies carry the results. Enthusiastic crowds have also stayed away, except for a few teams, leaving stadiums almost deserted. What is the reason for this decline, and why are fixtures not being announced?
Is the ISL in the final throes of its imminent demise? It was intended to give a big boost to Indian football. In the initial stages, it served a purpose. After so many years, the commentators are still largely foreigners.
