This Mumbai-based catering company has top IPL teams as its clients

Cricket in India is no less than a religion. People ‘eat, breathe and sleep’ the sport, and idolise sportspersons who represent the country's teams–whether in one day or test matches, or sporting tournaments like the Indian Premiere League or IPL.

There's much intrigue around the life of these sports stars–particularly around what they eat to maintain high fitness levels. With immense pressure to perform on the field, each player's diet has to be meticulously crafted to suit their nutrition needs.

This is what Mumbai-based Catering Collective’s Blue Sea vertical (a division of K Hospitality), which caters to the players of IPL teams like Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals, specialises in.

“Both teams have separate menus tailored to their needs and preferences for practice days versus match days,” Ashay Desai, Director, Culinary and F&B at Catering Collective, tells YS Life.

That's not all. The company also provides catering for audiences in stands and VIP boxes to enhance their experience during the IPL tournament. “Those who visit can relish a wide selection of culinary delights from fruit smoothies to wholesome salads and sandwiches. They are also muesli bars, assorted nuts and yoghurt, along with a variety of beverages and main courses,” adds Desai.

Balancing nutrition and taste

Blue Sea’s culinary strategy for Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals is based on a deep understanding of diverse palates and local flavours, intertwined with international favourites that resonate with the global nature of sports.

For instance, the practice menu for Mumbai Indians players focuses on refreshing drinks like nimbu pani (lemon water) with honey, rock salt, ginger, basil and chia seeds and coconut water with basil and chia seeds for hydration, while the food menu comprises baked sweet potato chaat and chicken frankie.

However, the options differ for Delhi Capitals where a well-stocked cold station with nuts, seeds and smoothies has been set up for a quick energy boost.

On match days, Mumbai Indians’ menu features beverages like masala tea and fresh watermelon juice. Their buffet spread offers everything from assorted sandwiches to mini vada pav with dry garlic chutney.

On the other hand, Delhi Capital's menu includes sandwiches and quiches, lamb neck gosht nihari and chicken rendang curry with edamame truffle rice for the main course.

“Our team has dedicated professionals who collaborate closely with nutritionists. Together, we ensure every meal served during the tournament provides nourishment and taste. Allergens are identified in the food served to players, ensuring their safety and well-being,” says Desai.

There's much thought put into each meal, be it the mid-match fuel, lunchtime power meal or post-match recovery options.

While playing on the field, cricketers rely heavily on strategic refueling; hence portable snacks like fruit slices, energy bars and electrolyte-rich drinks are arranged to prevent dehydration.

“For lunch, a power meal to keep them energised during the match is essential. Non-vegetarian food paired with complex carbohydrates like brown rice or quinoa form the foundation of these power plates. Colourful salads with leafy greens, vegetables, and antioxidant-rich fruits offer hydration and essential micronutrients,” shares Desai.

Post-match recovery is essential, and this is taken care of through nutritious meals. In this case, protein-rich meals or shakes help repair and rebuild muscles that are stressed during play.

It's no surprise that the menu planning exercise begins several months in advance to ensure quality and consistency in meals. This timeline allows the team to have brainstorming sessions, carry out menu development and extensive tasting sessions to achieve a certain standard.

“Our process involves thorough consideration of dietary requirements, cultural influences, and seasonal offerings,” reiterates Desai.

Culinary excellence at big-ticket events

Besides catering meals for IPL players, the team at Catering Collective also goes the extra mile to ensure the experience for fans is exceptional. From mobile food stations catering to on-the-go cravings to pre-plated meals for quick consumption are arranged.

Additionally, there's a selection of beverages including freshly brewed coffee, artisanal teas, and fresh juices to keep them hydrated and refreshed while they enjoy matches.

Catering Collective also provides services to other big-ticket events such as destination weddings and celebrity milestone celebrations. The company serves over half a million guests across 3,500 events each year.

Their most recent association was at the pre-event big bang celebration organised by Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in Jamnagar, Gujarat.

“What truly sets Catering Collective apart is its profound insight into customer preferences and an unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled hospitality experiences. This steadfast dedication ensures that we consistently exceed the discerning expectations of our clientele,” says Arindam Chakraborty, COO at Catering Collective.

What's next?

Arindam Chakraborty, COO at Catering Collective Chakraborty shares that their elite venues in Mumbai–Blue Sea with two decades of legacy and The Palace Halls, set up eight years ago, have already become the choice of South Mumbai’s discerning audience. They are also the catering arm at Araya Bagh New Delhi that has been designed by the Tarun Tahiliani Design Studio and can accommodate over 1500 guests across its indoor and outdoor venues.

“As we venture into new cities, our priority lies in engaging with audiences through upscale venues and catering services. Our primary target is the burgeoning wedding sector in south India, which is experiencing a notable uptick in demand. Rather than international locales, we foresee substantial growth prospects within this region in the coming 5-10 years,” concludes Chakraborty.