Pitching In

As the final play-offs of the sixth season of Indian Premier League (IPL) inch closer,the action is no longer just restricted to the stadium. The teams are going all out to be seen and heard,starting with the Rajasthan Royals (RR). Team RR has joined hands with Indiehaat Ventures,which aims to revive Indian handicrafts. Indiehaat is RR’s official “handmade merchandising partner” and will promote products made by Rajasthani artisans with an exclusive line called “The Royal Collection”. The line will be launched with 25 designs in ethnic Rajasthani furniture and 25 designs in accessories such as bags,cushions,laptop covers and stoles,and will be made available through http://www.thechorbazar.com. On the other hand,if you are a Chris Gayle fan and want to meet him in person,you can now take him home — in a miniature version. UK-based Figuractive has rolled out a “Cricket Stars” range in India,as well as an innovative gaming contest on its Facebook page. Priced at Rs 169 for two-inch collectables,it includes popular cricketers such as Gautam Gambhir (Kolkata Knight Riders),Chris Gayle (Royal Challengers Bangalore) and Virat Kohli (Royal Challengers Bangalore). “With the Cricket Stars range and contest,we want to encourage the trend of collectables,” said Rikesh Raja,Director,Figuractive. The figurines are available at leading stores across India.