BCCI to engage fans through social media platforms

New Delhi: Keeping a tap on the emerging trend of virtual existence, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made enhanced efforts to connect with the fans through online platforms.

Board secretary Anurag Thakur, in a conversation with Hindustan Times, said “We have focused a lot on social media and want the team to connect with the fans. At the same time, we want to tap the young fans who are involved with the social platform 24×7. Our aim is to feel that it is their team and develop a sense of belonging.”

However, it's Facebook page, which was created in 2011, has been lagging behind the Twitter handle, when it comes to activity.

But, off late, it has seen a surge in activity and the result is encouraging.

An emphatic Thakur was aware of the need to keep engaging with the fans, and added “We brought players on the platform and began posting interviews where players were not only discussing cricket but also sharing off-field life. Once a week we decided to bring the player live on the profile and fans can chat by sending their questions. Earlier, Ravi Shastri, Rahul Dravid and Ajinkya Rahane were a huge success. On an average, every interview had close to eight-nine lakh views.”

No doubt, the BCCI's is one of the most effective users of micro-blogging site Twitter, and have regular updates on it. With more than 2 million followers in its main handle, it has a seperate handle for domestic cricket.

It's Facebook page now has more than 23 million likes.

That sure is only a part in becoming the most power cricket body in the world. But impossible without the love and affection of the fans.