DK Shivakumar Breaks Silence On Buying RCB Rumours

In a typically witty response, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has categorically rejected rumours that he is buying the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) IPL franchise. Shivakumar responded to the rumours by saying, "Why do I need RCB? He makes it apparent that he has no interest in purchasing the squad by saying, "I don't even drink Royal Challenge."

Shortly after it was reported that Diageo Plc, the British distiller and current owner of RCB, was thinking of selling the franchise, rumours began to circulate online that D K Shivakumar would purchase it. This occurred in the midst of the ongoing controversy surrounding the stampede that killed 11 people and injured numerous more at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru during RCB's victory celebrations after winning the IPL.

Rumours that Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar intends to purchase the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) team have been refuted.

“I’m not a mad man. I’ve been a member of the Karnataka Cricket Association since my younger days, that’s all,” he said. “I don’t have time for this, though I did get offers to join cricket management. I don't even have time for my own educational institution, I resigned and left it to my family members.Why do I need RCB? I don’t even drink Royal Challenge,” he said to the news agency ANI.

Following the rumours, the price of United Spirits' shares, which are listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), increased by 3.3%, reaching a five-month high on Tuesday morning. As a result, the BSE was compelled to write to Diageo, who replied that the reports were only hypothetical.

The continuous rumours underscore the enormous commercial worth and worldwide popularity of the RCB brand, even though Diageo and DK Shivakumar have disassociated themselves from any ownership change. 

Despite the fact that no sale is imminent, industry observers think that future choices may be influenced by the growing valuation and public interest. One thing is certain for the time being: DK Shivakumar has no plans to enter the competitive world of IPL franchise ownership, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru is not for sale.

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