Rajasthan Royals, the Indian Premier League Team (IPL), has become the latest club to benefit from Puma's interest in the fledgling league. The leading sportswear company has announced that it is the official sponsor of the team's home and away uniforms.  Puma has also entered into a deal with fellow league team the Deccan Chargers in a bid to capitalise on its huge worldwide viewing figures, particularly in the fast-growing economy of the sub-continent.

Puma's deal with the Rajasthan Royals, who were crowned champions in the 2008 inaugural season, will include the provision of Jaipur IPL brand merchandise, including the team jersey, fans shirts and other accessories. 

The Rajasthan Royals, which represents the state of Rajasthan in India, is owned by Emerging Media Group, based in India, and boast Shane Warne, the legendary Australian spin-bowler, as player and coach for the 2009 season.

The IPL caused controversy in its opening season due to the way are were auctioned to Indian franchises, and the vast sums of money involved – each team has to meet a minimum spend on players of US$3.3 million – sums that cricket had previously not been used to. There was particular conflict with the English cricketing authority, the England and Wales Cricket Board, which would not allow English cricketers to play in the IPL as it clashed with its own national league, the LV County Championship. The matter has been resolved in time for the second IPL tournament, in which English players are now allowed to compete.