Mr. Chitrajeet Upadhyaya Returns to GAPL as Franchise Owner Ahead of Season 2 Mega Auction
Gujarat Advocates' Premier League gears up for its second season, with Season 1 franchise owner Mr. Chitrajeet Upadhyaya set to feature at the Mega Auction on 6th September 2026
The Gujarat Advocates' Premier League (GAPL), Gujarat's premier franchise-based cricket tournament exclusively for advocates, is set to return with its much-anticipated Season 2, and Mr. Chitrajeet Upadhyaya has once again been invited to be part of the action, this time as the owner of a new franchise heading into the Mega Auction.
About GAPL
Conceived under the spirit of "Where Law Meets Cricket," GAPL brings together legal professionals from across Gujarat for a spirited franchise cricket tournament that blends competitive sport with camaraderie and networking within the legal fraternity. True to its motto, #PlayByTheBook, the league has quickly established itself as one of the most anticipated events on the calendar for advocates across the state.
A Successful Season 1
GAPL's inaugural season, held in November 2025 in Ahmedabad, brought together eight franchises from across Gujarat, including Mehsana Marvels XI, Surat Solicitors XI, and other city based advocate teams, competing over a series of closely fought league matches. The season was widely regarded as a resounding success, marked by strong participation from advocates across the state, enthusiastic audience engagement, a robust social media presence, and professional event management from start to finish. Senior advocates stepped up not only as players but as franchise owners, lending the league credibility and a strong sense of community.
Among them was Mr. Chitrajeet Upadhyaya, who owned and led Surat Solicitors XI, a team that carried the tagline "From the diamond city, sparkle into action!", with Adv. Bhavik Shah featuring as the franchise's Icon Player. Backed by title sponsor Rhythm Group, equipment partner Cric Studio Inc., and supported by the Lions Club of Patan, Surat Solicitors XI represented the city of Surat with pride through Season 1, reflecting the professionalism and passion that GAPL has become known for.
Season 2: A New Franchise, A New Chapter
Building on the momentum of Season 1, GAPL Season 2 promises greater participation, stronger branding, and wider digital reach. And for Mr. Chitrajeet Upadhyaya, Season 2 brings a new chapter: he now takes on ownership of HRU Legals's Bhavnagar Advocates XI, under the guiding philosophy: "Leading with vision, winning with passion."
The transition from Surat Solicitors XI to Bhavnagar Advocates XI marks a fresh franchise journey, with Mr. Upadhyaya once again set to play a hands on role in building the squad at the Mega Auction, identifying talent, assembling the playing roster, and steering the franchise into the new season.
Mega Auction, Season 2
GAPL has extended a special invitation to Adv. Chitrajeet Upadhyaya for the Mega Auction of GAPL Season 2, scheduled for:
- Date: Sunday, 6th September 2026
- Time: 9:30 PM onwards
- Venue: Five Petals Hotels & Banquets, Ghatlodiya, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 380061
The auction will see franchise owners bid for players ahead of what promises to be an even bigger and more competitive edition of the tournament.
On 6th September 2026, at the event of the Mega Auction, our aim is to build a balanced, competitive squad for Bhavnagar Advocates XI, one that reflects the same spirit, discipline, and sportsmanship that GAPL stands for, while giving the franchise the strongest possible start heading into the league stage.
Looking Ahead
With Season 1 having laid a strong foundation, GAPL Season 2 raises the standard, bringing together advocates, law firms, and legal professionals from across Gujarat once more, on and off the field. As owner of Bhavnagar Advocates XI, Adv. Chitrajeet Upadhyaya looks forward to bringing the same energy and leadership to this new franchise that defined his Season 1 campaign, as GAPL continues to prove that in Gujarat, law and cricket go hand in hand.
A Look Back at Season 1
Here are some glimpses from last year's edition of GAPL, from the auction night to the matches and the moments in between that made the inaugural season one to remember.
