Courtesy: -> Futsal Planet



Blow to Premier Futsal as Chennai franchise owners withdraw

by Shilarze Saharoy

Nov 29, 2016

CHENNAI: The owners of Chennai 5s team in the Premier Futsal have decided to withdraw from the tournament. The Hindu group had acquired the rights of the Chennai team ahead of the inaugural edition of Premier Futsal, which was held in July.

Rohit Ramesh, the scion of the group, confirmed to TOI on Tuesday that they would play no further part in the league. "We have ended our ties with the Premier Futsal League after the first season," Rohit said.

In the six-team tournament, Chennai 5s, who had recruited Falcao as their marquee player, had finished fifth and failed to qualify for the knockout stages.

Rohit said that the group is now more interested to own an I-League side. They had submitted their bid for an I-League side when the first window opened. However, with AIFF relaxing the financial norms and asking for fresh tenders, they are preparing to resubmit their bid again.

"We are now looking to compete in I-League. The good thing is we didn't have any issues on technical front as we have good practice facilities and a fantastic venue in Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium," Rohit asserted.

Rohit said that an I-League team in Chennai would provide a major boost for local football. "It will be a major boost for Chennai football if the federation accepts our application. Our aim has always been to own an I-League team and I am happy that we have started our journey and taken the first step," he said.


Posted by Luca Ranocchiari --> luca.ranocchiari@futsalplanet.com