The inaugural Imperial Blue Packaged Drinking Water Assam Premier League (APL) concluded on August 23 at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati, marking the launch of a new franchise-based T20 platform for Assam and the wider Northeast cricket ecosystem. Organised by the Assam Cricket Association, the maiden season brought together eight franchises and featured 43 matches, creating a competitive platform for some of Assam’s promising homegrown cricketers while building a new sporting property for fans and regional stakeholders.
Barpeta Braves emerged as the inaugural champions after defeating Guwahati Royals by five wickets in the final. Imperial Blue Packaged Drinking Water, the founding title sponsor, made its first association with the league, securing visibility across the tournament’s physical and digital ecosystem. Ahmed Rahimtoola, CMO of Tilaknagar Industries, said the partnership reflected the company’s focus on supporting regional sporting platforms, local talent and Assam’s cricketing culture.
RajdeepOja, Chairman of the Assam Premier League, said the response from players, fans and communities had been encouraging and highlighted the potential of the tournament as a long-term sporting platform. The partnership also reflects Tilaknagar Industries’ broader commitment to Assam and the Northeast, where it sees significant growth potential for the Imperial Blue brand. The league now positions itself as a platform combining regional pride, community participation and commercial opportunities while strengthening the pathway for local cricketing talent. Ahmed Rahimtoola, CMO of Tilaknagar Industries, said the league reflected Assam’s passion for cricket and highlighted the potential for building sporting platforms with a strong regional identity. The inaugural season is expected to lay the foundation for the Assam Premier League to develop into a long-term sporting platform, bringing together regional pride, community participation and opportunities for local cricketing talent.
