US-based Indian company, new owners of Jamaica Tallawahs

St. George's (Grenada), July 16 (IANS/CMC) The United States based Chalak Mitra Group (CMG) are the new franchise owners of reigning Caribbean Premier League (CPL) Champions, Jamaica Tallawahs, organisers have announced.

The announcement was made here after the Tallawahs posted a thrilling opening round victory over St. Lucia Zouks at the national stadium here at the weekend, reports CMC.

"We're delighted to become the new owners of the Jamaica Tallawahs franchise," declared Manish Patel, chairman and president of CMG.

"As a group we are passionate about cricket and after seeing the success of the CPL last year, we knew this was something we wanted to be a part of."

CMG, founded by a group of entrepreneurs from India is headquartered in Dallas, Texas, and owns and operates restaurant concepts across America, including one of the largest KFC franchises in the country.

The group, through its restaurant businesses, has sponsorship deals with NBA teams, the Dallas Mavericks and Memphis Grizzlies, as well as several initiatives at collegiate and grassroots levels.

"The unique and vibrant culture of Jamaica drew us towards the Tallawahs, and given that Indo-Jamaican culture has flourished for many years, we knew it was the right choice," said Patel.

"We can't wait to get involved with the team and become a part of the Jamaican community."

Chris Gayle scored the first ever CPL century as Tallawahs, who emerged as champions from the inaugural CPL last year, beat AZouks to set the tone for an exciting second season.

"It's a testament to the strength of the CPL and the Jamaica Tallawahs that we are able to welcome such a respected new franchise owner," noted CPL CEO Damien O'Donohoe.

"CMG is a hugely successful organisation with vast experience and a passion for sport. We're looking forward to working with them as they help us reinforce the success of the CPL and develop new audiences for the Biggest Party in Sport," he added.

The Jamaica Tallawahs play their next match against the Antigua Hawksbills at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium Thursday.

--IANS/CMC