I am a keen sports enthusiast and when I do have the time, I watch anything ranging from F1 to golf events on TV. The T20 format is yet most explosive of all cricketing events. The last T20 world cup was fantastic. IPL seasons 1 and 2 were edge-of-the-seat events.
Alas, IPL season 3, even in its second week, has become something of a dread, at least for the home TV viewers. Reason? The amount of advertisements that promoters dump on you. It is understood and acceptable when an ad appears between overs or drink-breaks. But now, there are ads being inserted between TWO BALLS IN AN OVER, and my TV screen is being reduced by a third to make space for ads even when the game is in progress. There is only that much a person, with decent levels of tolerance can take. After which, the fingers automatically seeks new buttons on the remote.
We all know that IPL is commercial venture and will probably reach the levels of NFL or NBA in the US. The difference however is, those guys allow you to watch the game in peace. So, IPL organisers, Set Max, Imbus Sports Production, whoever is in charge of inserting ads, tickers and banners should take note and do something to improve the situation for home viewers.
The following message was sent "Write to the Chairman" on IPL’s website on 23rd March.
"I am home TV viewer of IPL matches. The number of advertisements that appear, even when the match is in progress, is fast becoming a source of irritation. And, please don’t reduce my TV screen size for ads’ sake. It’s only a 21" unit..and I have to watch the match in 14" screen because of the ads..! Thank you."
We’ll see if matters improve..!