Sun TV Network
The team anthem, composed by G. V. Prakash Kumar, was released on 12 March 2013.
Sun TV Network Limited, headquartered in Chennai, is one of India's largest television and media conglomerates, operating a wide portfolio of regional and national channels across multiple Indian languages. At the time of the franchise acquisition, the network owned 32 television channels and 45 FM radio stations, giving the team substantial promotional reach and allowing the brand to be marketed aggressively across southern India. The entry of Sun TV into the IPL also reinforced the close association between Indian media houses and franchise ownership, with the group leveraging its existing sports broadcasting and entertainment platforms to build the new team's identity and fan base.
- Owner
- Sun TV Network
- Franchise Launch Year
- 2013
- Home Ground
- Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium
- Major Honour
- IPL Champions 2016
- Key Figure
- Kalanithi Maran
- Status
- Active Franchisee
- Brand Identity
- Orange and Black
Lore & Background
The team anthem, composed by G. V. Prakash Kumar, was released on 12 March 2013 and was used extensively in promotional campaigns and stadium presentations during the inaugural season.
In Their Own Story
The formal announcement of the squad took place in Chennai on 18 December 2012, marking the official transition from the Deccan Chargers era to the Sunrisers Hyderabad brand. The team jersey was unveiled on 8 March 2013, featuring a predominantly orange and black colour scheme. The team anthem, composed by G. V. Prakash Kumar, was released on 12 March 2013 and was used extensively in promotional campaigns and stadium presentations during the inaugural season. The initial team management was led by former India opener Kris Srikkanth, who was appointed mentor and chief strategist, with support from a backroom staff that included high‑profile international coaches and consultants. Over time, this structure evolved, with Srikkanth later being replaced by a management group featuring veteran cricketers such as Daniel Vettori, Muttiah Muralitharan and Varun Aaron in various coaching and mentoring roles.
Reader's Guide
The team jersey was unveiled on 8 March 2013, featuring a predominantly orange and black colour scheme intended to symbolise energy, aggression and the rising sun motif that would come to define the franchise's visual identity. The team logo was previously unveiled on 20 December 2012, depicting a stylised eagle with outstretched wings rising against the sun, a design meant to represent resilience, renewal and the continuation of Hyderabad's IPL legacy after the exit of the Deccan Chargers.
Did You Know?
- The team anthem was composed by G. V. Prakash Kumar, not Thaman S.
- The team logo was unveiled on 20 December 2012, showing a stylised eagle with outstretched wings rising against the sun.
- The team jersey was unveiled on 8 March 2013 with an orange and black colour scheme.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Sun TV Network?
Sun TV Network is the Chennai-based media conglomerate that founded the Sunrisers Hyderabad franchise in 2013 after acquiring the rights from the defunct Deccan Chargers. Led by key figure Kalanithi Maran, it operates as one of India's largest television and radio groups while serving as the team's long-term owner.
What role does Sun TV Network play for the team?
As the founding franchisee, Sun TV Network established the modern corporate identity of the Hyderabad squad and manages all operational aspects from their headquarters. Their ownership ensures continuous stability for the franchise playing at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium.
Why is the Sun TV Network era considered important?
This era marks the entire history of the modern Hyderabad franchise, transforming it into a competitive force within the Indian Premier League. It is most celebrated for orchestrating the 'orange revolution' that led to the team's historic 2016 championship victory.
How did Sun TV Network come to own Sunrisers Hyderabad?
The network acquired the franchise rights in 2013 following the termination of the previous Deccan Chargers ownership. This acquisition allowed them to launch a new team brand that has remained active ever since without interruption.
What are the major achievements under Sun TV Network's ownership?
The most significant milestone during their tenure is winning the IPL title in 2016, which stands as the franchise's only major honor to date. Their management has consistently maintained the team as a recognizable and active participant in every season since its inception.
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