MUMBAI: Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS), the new entrant in the ninth season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), unveiled the team’s official jersey in striking new colours in New Delhi today, in the presence of the team owner RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group chairman Sanjiv Goenka and team captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni. The team management also announced the appointment of ex-Indian cricketer Hrishikesh Kanitkar as the assistant coach of the side.
Speaking on the occasion Goenka said, “On behalf of the entire family of Rising Pune Supergiants, I would like to congratulate the team’s think tank for putting up a formidable side for the upcoming season of IPL. With so many achievers and successful cricketers in our ranks we look forward to a solid performance and some electrifying camaraderie on field. Pune has a very strong fan base and they appreciate good cricket, we are looking forward to a new home and come April, the city of Pune will have their own team to cheer for.”
Dhoni spoke about his new role as the captain of RPS, saying, “I am looking forward to a new experience with the RPS. IPL has always been the breeding ground for new exciting talents who have the potential to play vital part in the future for the Indian Cricket Team. This year we have a very balanced side with the right combination of youth and experience which is essential for any team to succeed. We have got some big hitters and players who know to bind the innings together by putting on partnerships. Both batting and bowling unit looks good on paper but consistent performance will be the yardstick for judging the team. I am really looking forward to working with the new team management and hopefully we can make the people of Pune happy with our performance.”
RPS logo and jersey rationale
The elements used in the jersey connote the dynamism and ‘ever-rising’ spirit of the team RPS. The colours used are vibrant and complement each other in bringing out the winning attitude of the team. Of the colours on the jersey, purple in particular makes a statement of superiority and brings out the energy of this team of stars. "The orange colour signifies the team’s firm determination and enthusiasm to break every barrier, thus winning every game. The bold look of the jersey reflects the confidence and ability of this team of star players who have their sights set firmly on success,” said an official statement from RPS.
The word ‘Rising’ at a deeper level traces back to the free spirit of ‘Pune’ that never bowed down before any odds. Moreover, it also depicts the heights of excellence and success the new team will achieve being studded with ‘Super’ players like Dhoni, Ashwin, and Smith. Every player in the team is a star who shines bright in every battle, giving their best under pressure. In that sense they are also ‘Giants’ with extraordinary stature, performing astonishing feats.
The logo has a regal feel and its visual elements are an amalgamation of cricketing equipment like the bat, the ball and the bails. The wings impart an overall impression of ‘soaring high’ while the bold font provides a sense of solidity. The purple colour of the ball signifies the energy and stability of the team.
RPS will be having ex-New Zealand Skipper Stephen Fleming as the Coach of the side. The team will also have a professional CEO in Raghu Iyer, who is a Sports, Media and Entertainment professional with 21 years of invaluable experience. Prior to joining the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group, he was with Rajasthan Royals since its inception.
