5 sports which could challenge Cricket in India

2) Football

Traditionally, football is the second most popular sport in India after cricket. The history of the game is rooted deep in tradition.

Mohun Bagan’s defeat of East Yorkshire Regiment in 1911 is still cited as a major landmark, not only in football, but also in India’s freedom movement. It instilled a sense of belief among the local populace, which led to them questioning the perception of European supremacy.

Starting in the early noughties, the Indian urban population has bought into European football. The English Premier League has an overwhelmingly high viewership in India.

More recently, the advent of the ISL has allowed Indian footballers to come into prominence. It has also led to a rise in income levels of Indian footballers and promises bigger things.

However, there are multiple conundrums in Indian football. Although the market is present, the sport needs to be conducted in a more professional manner.

About the author

Sitam Chaki