Cricket gaming startup Hitwicket partners with ISB to create gaming career opportunities in India

Cricket gaming startup Hitwicket has joined forces with the Indian School of Business (ISB), one of India’s premier business institutes, as a strategic partner for the ISB GameX Accelerator program.

GameX Accelerator is a three-month program designed to be a launchpad for aspiring gaming and esports entrepreneurs, providing participants with specialised business and technological resources, mentorship from seasoned professionals, fundraising guidance, and access to a vibrant gaming community.

The program is designed to nurture talent, fuel innovation, and equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge required to thrive in the competitive gaming landscape.

The startup said that through a tailored curriculum and hands-on mentorship, participants can gain invaluable insights and support to turn their gaming ideas into reality.

Market opportunity

Traditionally, business schools have mostly focused on established sectors such as consultancy and finance. However, this initiative aims to capitalise on the booming esports industry and reshape the landscape of career options in India. The online gaming industry plays a crucial role in the Digital India vision and initiative.

The Prime Minister's aim to position India as a leading global gaming hub has gained renewed focus following his recent interaction with the country's top gamers. 

The online gaming industry in India has seen a rapid expansion of 28% CAGR between FY20 and FY23.

Projections indicate further growth to Rs 33,243 crore by FY28, with a sustained 15% CAGR. The gaming and esports sector draws considerable foreign and domestic investments and creates substantial direct and indirect employment opportunities.

Harsha Bhogle's investment in Hitwicket

Founded in 2020 by Keerti Singh and Kashyap Reddy, Hitwicket is a Hyderabad-based cricket strategy gaming startup aiming to become a global cricket gaming brand from India.

Earlier this year, veteran cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle backed Hitwicket as a strategic investor, further validating the potential of esports in the country.

Harsha Bhogle, a familiar voice in cricket for over 40 years, is not just a commentator but also a management guru and an MBA graduate. 

The startup earlier said that the partnership with Harsha Bhogle will help it achieve its goal of 50 million downloads globally over the next two years.

Leadership comments

Keerti Singh and Kashyap Reddy, co-founders of Hitwicket, said, "The landscape of the Indian gaming industry has undergone a dramatic shift since we started Hitwicket. Back then, resources and support for aspiring game developers were scarce. ISB is pioneering support for the gaming sector, recognising its immense potential and fostering innovation and growth in this dynamic field through this program, which will be a game changer."

"This collaboration with ISB allows us to support the next generation of gaming leaders. We are excited to be part of this journey and look forward to empowering the next generation of gaming leaders and propelling India to the global esports ecosystem," Singh said.

"We're thrilled to have Hitwicket as our strategic partner for the GameX Accelerator Program. Their deep understanding of the Indian gaming market makes them a valuable partner in nurturing the next generation of esports entrepreneurs. This collaboration will equip up-and-coming gaming leaders and the future of India's gaming industry with the skills and resources needed to drive innovation, shape industry trends, and contribute to India's thriving gaming ecosystem,” said Saumya Kumar, Director at I-Venture, ISB.