ISL set to kick off after long hiatus

India’s top football league to commence February 14, all teams to participate after the sport’s darkest phase

- PRESS TRUST OF INDIA

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya Tuesday announced that the Indian Super League (ISL), which was on pause due to the lack of a commercial partner, will start February 14, ending a crisis that paralysed Indian football for close to six months.

‘The ISL, which used to start in September, will feature all 14 clubs, including Mohun Bagan and East bengal, which were opposed to the financial model suggested by the All India Football Federation (AIFF).

‘The second division I-League, which was also on pause for the same reason, will be held "around the same time" with all 11 clubs in participation.

“There was lot of speculation regarding ISL but today government, the football federation and all 14 clubs, Mohun Bagan and East Bengal included, had a meeting and we have decided that the ISL will start on February 14, All clubs will participate," Mandaviya announced in a brief statement flanked by CEOs of ISL clubs.