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Channel7 rides the reality bus with ‘Scorpio Speedster 2005’
With ‘Scorpio Speedster 2005’, Channel7 gets into the reality formula
With the reality bug biting general entertainment channels, it was about time a news channel caught on to the trend. Channel7 has taken a lead in this direction with the launch of India’s first reality cricket TV series, ‘Scorpio Speedster 2005’. Ace Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram and former India captain Ajay Jadeja have been roped in to judge the show.
Siddhartha Gupta, director, Channel7 says, “Channel7 hopes to redefine the television viewing habit with ‘Scorpio Speedster 2005’. The reality medium attracts because it brings with it stories of real people associated with the show besides drama and comedy.”
He adds, “Channel7’s cricket reality show will showcase the courtship for the title as the contenders are tested on their bowling prowess through the gripping series.”
Commenting on why they are bringing a reality show to a news channel, Piyush Jain, COO, Channel7, says, “It is a seemingly natural integration of cricket and reality. In India, cricket rules the hearts and minds of the people. We are not bringing reality by showing any dance or music, but through cricket, which generates genuine emotions in possibly most Indians.”
He adds, “Being a news plus channel, our effort is to give our viewers something more than just news. Sports is big news and, with this attempt, we are trying to bring together sports and the reality format. We hope to increase our appointment viewing by bringing this reality based cricket series.”
The selection for the title holder will be based on tests designed and conducted by the World Cricket Academy and the contenders will be tested beyond speed on other parameters like accuracy, adaptability, endurance, swing and fielding. The winner will be awarded with a full season’s training at the MRF Pace Foundation along with a cash prize of Rs10 lakh.
The seven-episode series will begin its final search for the fastest pace bowler with seven already shortlisted contenders. The show will go on air on December 3, 2005.
© 2005 agencyfaqs!