THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: It’s time for the techies to take cricket bats. Registration has begun for Technopark’s most celebrated event - Technopark Premier League, which will begin by the last week of January.The three-month-long event, which is being held since 2000, witnesses the participation of more than 90 companies. But, techies need not make a toss on work and play as the tournament is held on holidays.
This year too, the authorities are expecting the participation of more than 100 teams. “Not just the IT companies, but teams of commercial establishments, service providers, CITU and INTUC etc participate in this annual event. Even hotels based in Technopark have their own teams. Some companies have more than one team. ‘’It would take two-three weeks to begin the tournament. Though there are competitions in other sports items, cricket is the most popular event,” said M Vasudevan, senior manager, business development, Technopark.
Interestingly, a team of 108 ambulance services participated in last year’s tournament. The call centre of 108 ambulance operates from Technopark.
The matches are played on Saturdays, Sundays and other public holidays without compromising the working hours. This is the reason for the tournament lasting three months. The first round will be played in the league format, followed by the knock-out round. The qualifying matches are of 10-overs. Quarterfinals have 15-over matches.
Joji Vincent, captain of the team of Technopark-based Accentia, said TPL is one of the most entertaining events in Technopark. Teams take a serious approach after the pre-quarters. Only 32 teams will enter the pre-quarter matches.