MAM
Navio Shipping, Vijai Marine Shipyard, Kalliyath & Georoof join as associate sponsors for Finesse Thrissur Titans
Mumbai: The inaugural Kerala Cricket League (KCL) is gaining momentum rapidly since its launch, with Finesse Thrissur Titans leading the charge by securing significant sponsorships. With a strong lineup for this year’s league, captained by Varun Nayanar, the Titans are making strategic moves, marked by these key sponsorship announcements.
Navio, as the main associate sponsor, has secured crucial assets like the jersey back and the cap/helmet sponsorships. Navio Shipping director Ajay Thampy stated, “This partnership is more than just brand visibility for us; it’s about holistic support for the future of cricket in Kerala. We are proud to contribute to the growth of Kerala’s cricketers, and we hope to see more talents like Sanju Samson, Tinu Yohannan and Sreesanth emerging from our state, representing the national side and IPL franchises.”
Vijai Marine Services’ MD Suraj Dialani emphasised the importance of bold steps towards establishing international standards for cricket in Kerala. He noted, “With the talent we have here, the Kerala Cricket League can significantly enhance the cricketing ecosystem in the state, especially in elevating the quality and standards of the matches played.”
K Care, the new construction chemicals brand from Kalliyath Group, will be the Titans’ jersey sleeve sponsor, focusing on digital and other brand engagement activities around the league. Their executive director Dirsha Mohammed highlighted that the Thrissur Titan’s commitment to grassroots cricket and its development plans were key factors in their decision to partner. “We believe this will be a long-term relationship with Thrissur Titans, built on shared values and a vision for cricket’s future in Kerala.”
“Cricket unites us and taps into deep emotions, making it the perfect platform for our partnership with Thrissur Titans. We couldn’t have asked for a better beginning than to align with a team rooted in our hometown and backyard,” said Georoof MD Biju George.
Finesse Thrissur Titans owner Sajjad Sait expressed gratitude to the sponsors, stating, “The growth of leagues and franchise cricket depends on strong brand associations. These partnerships not only multiply our efforts but also solidify our commitment to the game. We are committed to delivering exceptional value and ROI to ensure that these associations thrive in the long term.”
Brands
Jubilant FoodWorks faces Rs 47.5 crore GST demand, plans appeal
Tax authorities flag alleged misclassification of restaurant services
MUMBAI: Jubilant FoodWorks Limited has landed in a tax tussle after receiving a GST demand of Rs 47.5 crore from the office of the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Thane, Maharashtra.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, relates to an alleged incorrect classification of certain services under the category of restaurant services. According to the tax authorities, this classification resulted in a short payment of goods and services tax for the period between the financial years 2019-20 and 2021-22.
The demand includes Rs 47.5 crore in GST along with an equal amount as penalty, in addition to applicable interest. The order was received by the company on March 13, 2026.
In a regulatory filing to the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited, the company said it disagrees with the order and believes its arguments were not adequately considered.
The company is preparing to challenge the decision and plans to file an appeal. It added that once the redressal process is complete, the demand is likely to be dropped.
Despite the sizeable figure attached to the notice, the company said it does not expect any material impact on its financials, operations or other activities.
The disclosure was signed by Suman Hegde, EVP and chief financial officer, who confirmed that the company received the order at 19:06 IST on March 13 and has already initiated steps to contest it.
The development places the quick service restaurant major in the middle of a tax debate that could hinge on how certain restaurant-linked services are classified under GST rules. For now, the company appears ready to take the matter from the tax office to the appeals desk.
