“Professional Golf Was Screaming for a League”: Amandeep Johl on 72 The League, Infrastructure Push and IGPL Debate

New Delhi, Feb 17: At the players' auction of the inaugural edition of 72 The League - the franchise-based competition backed by the Professional Golf Tour of India - CEO Amandeep Johl laid out an ambitious roadmap for Indian golf.

From the need for a professional league and infrastructure expansion to the return of Kartik Singh and comparisons with IGPL, Johl addressed the sport's present and future in candid detail, even as the auction itself delivered headline-making bids.

The auction featured six city-based franchises - Capital Lancers (Delhi), Charminar Champions (Hyderabad), Kolkata Classics, Mumbai Aces, Rajasthan Regals and UP Prometheans - each operating with a purse of Rs 1 crore to build a 10-member squad. A total of 12 foreign professionals from seven countries were picked up, underlining the international ambition of the league from its very first season.

"Golf Was Screaming for a League"

Johl did not mince words when asked why PGTI decided to launch a franchise competition despite its regular tour functioning well. "It was almost as if professional golf was screaming for a league of their own. Every sport has a league - kabaddi, football, hockey. But golf didn't," he told myKhel in an exclusive chat.

He pointed out that even clubs like Royal Calcutta, Delhi, Bombay, Bangalore and Hyderabad have had amateur leagues, yet professional golfers never had a unified team-based platform.

Drawing parallels with cricket's structure - bilateral formats coexisting with the Indian Premier League - Johl described 72 The League as a complementary product rather than a replacement. Johl - a former professional golfer himself - added further, "It's only two and a half weeks. It's not disturbing my schedule. Those who don't get selected can play next-gen events. Nobody misses out."

Auction Sets the Tone: Record Bids and Breakout Stars

The auction floor offered one of the most compelling narratives in Indian golf's recent history. In-form Honey Baisoya emerged as the most expensive Indian player, bagged by Capital Lancers for Rs 20.5 lakh after a bidding war with Rajasthan Regals and Kolkata Classics. Placed in the Platinum category with a base price of Rs 10 lakh, the 29-year-old's valuation reflected his recent strong performances, including his victory at the DP World Players Championship at Qutab Golf Course.

Shubham Jaglan turned out to be the biggest gainer of the auction. Listed in the Silver category at a base price of Rs 3 lakh, the 21-year-old sparked interest from all six franchises before Charminar Champions secured him for Rs 19 lakh - more than six times his base price.

Sixteen-year-old Kartik Singh was another major attraction. Also slotted in the Silver category at Rs 3 lakh, he was picked up by Mumbai Aces for Rs 14.40 lakh after an intense bidding contest. His signing reinforced the league's blend of youth and potential.

Arjun Prasad, who recently notched two top-10 finishes on tour, went to UP Prometheans for Rs 18 lakh, while veteran Mukesh Kumar, 60, was drafted by Kolkata Classics for Rs 7 lakh, showcasing the sport's rare longevity.

Among overseas professionals, USA's Jhared Hack led the way at Rs 15.80 lakh, courtesy aggressive bidding from Capital Lancers. Overall, 12 foreign players were selected, ensuring a competitive international mix in the inaugural edition.

For Johl, the age spectrum itself sent a powerful message. "Which job allows you to start earning at 14 years and keep earning till 60? No other sport allows you such a long career."

League's Format: Match Play With "Ryder Cup Flavour"

Unlike conventional stroke-play tournaments, 72 The League adopts a pure match-play structure inspired by the Ryder Cup. "It's totally match play. Bit of Ryder Cup flavour," Johl explained.

Each day will feature singles matches, four-ball contests and a foursome format involving alternate shots. Every player in the 10-member squad must participate across formats, ensuring rotation and strategy.

The tournament begins at Classic Golf Resort in Manesar, moves to Jaypee Greens in Greater Noida and concludes at Qutub Golf Club.

IGPL Comparison: "You Can't Compare It to an Association"

On the subject of IGPL and Kartik Singh's earlier participation there, Johl maintained a measured tone but highlighted structural differences. He stated, "You can't compare it to an association or an organisation."

He stressed that the PGTI operates as a players' body offering ranking pathways and global recognition. Referring to governance strength, he cited the example of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), saying: "BCCI is BCCI. You can't say somebody will set up a local tournament and compare it."

At the same time, Johl reiterated that returning players are welcome, provided they adhere to the tour's regulations. "This is their tour. If they follow the rules and regulations, everybody is welcome."

"We Are 4th World in Infrastructure"

Perhaps the most forceful remarks from Johl came when he addressed golf infrastructure in India. "We are 4th world in golf infrastructure. Not even 3rd."

He called for at least 100 new golf courses to be built in the next decade if India hopes to match global standards and meet its development ambitions by 2047.

Johl urged state governments, particularly in emerging greenfield capitals, to integrate golf courses into master plans from the beginning. "Build the golf course and then build the city around it," he further said.

He argued that golf facilities are crucial for attracting global investors and institutions, positioning them as part of broader economic development.

Making Golf Watchable: "Bring It to the Phone First"

Golf remains a niche broadcast product in India, something Johl openly acknowledged and said, "You've got to bring it first to social media and then to your phone."

The PGTI already streams on YouTube and Waves OTT, alongside Doordarshan coverage. Production quality for 72 The League, he said, will be elevated to make it more inclusive and engaging.

The opening ceremony is expected to feature prominent dignitaries, including ICC Chairman Jay Shah, alongside leading industry figures supporting Indian golf.

"If you have the right people at the top, the game will grow. Amandeep alone can't do anything."

The Bigger Picture

With record bids, 12 foreign signings, teenage prodigies and seasoned veterans sharing the same platform, the 72 The League auction has provided immediate commercial traction to the concept.

For Amandeep Johl, however, the league is not just about auction numbers. It represents a structural shift aimed at commercial expansion, international integration and infrastructure advocacy. "If we do things the right way, there is a good chance to succeed."

The auction has delivered the first spark. The real test now begins on the course.