'I do not own any ISL team,' clarifies Salman Khan

Bollywood star Salman Khan used micro-blogging site Twitter to deny reports of him investing in Indian Super League team FC Pune City.

The actor, who was believed to be the co-owner of the Pune franchise, posted: "I do not own any ISL team. My friends Dheeraj & Kapil Wadhawan had asked me to be their partner in FC Pune City.

“But due to my endorsement contracts with Suzuki and Thums Up which conflict with the League sponsors, I can't associate with FC Pune City.”

He went on to wish the league, which kicks-off on Sunday, October 12 at the Salt Lake stadium in Kolkata with a grand Opening Ceremony at 6 pm, followed by the inaugural match, between Atlético de Kolkata and Mumbai City FC, "all success".

"By creating ISL, IMG-Reliance and Star have put in place an important building block to put Indian football on the global football map.

"I endorse Nita Ambani's vision in the football grassroots program and will work wholeheartedly in supporting it.

"The football grassroots program will shape the next generation of Indian footballers," his Twitter post added.

Backed by the All India Football Federation, the Hero Indian Super League is set to usher a new era of football in India.

Featuring eight new clubs, it aims to promote the game of football across India, in the newer markets and foster young local talent to take up the sport professionally.

The eight participating franchises are: Atletico de Kolkata, Delhi Dynamos FC, North East United FC, Kerala Blasters FC, FC Goa, FC Pune City, Mumbai City FC and Chennaiyin FC.

Each team will have a minimum squad strength of 22 players, including one marquee player, seven internationals and 14 Indian talent.

Image: Salman Khan

Photograph: Pradeep Bandekar