Major Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise owners are now strategic partners in England’s innovative cricket competition, The Hundred, marking a significant global expansion for these cricket powerhouses.
IPL Giants Secure Stakes in The Hundred
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) recently confirmed that several prominent IPL team owners have acquired stakes in The Hundred franchises. This move solidifies a new era of cross-league collaboration in cricket.
By October 1, these partners are expected to gain operational control of their respective teams. The ECB has already finalized six deals, with two more in the pipeline.
Who’s Investing Where?
Among the key Indian investors, the RPSG Group, owners of the Lucknow Super Giants, is set to take a 70 percent stake in Manchester Originals. This gives them a significant controlling interest in the team.
Sun TV Network Limited, which owns Sunrisers Hyderabad, is making an even bigger splash by acquiring a 100 percent stake in the Northern Superchargers. This means complete ownership for the Hyderabad-based group.
The GMR Group, co-owners of the Delhi Capitals, has secured a 49 percent stake in the Southern Brave. Meanwhile, the Reliance Group, owners of Mumbai Indians, is in advanced talks for a 49 percent stake in the Oval Invincibles.
A Landmark Deal for English Cricket
The ECB views these partnerships as a landmark achievement for The Hundred. This strategic move aims to bring global expertise and investment into the English and Welsh cricket ecosystem.
Formal completion for the remaining two deals, including Reliance Group’s involvement and Cain International & Ares Management’s stake in Trent Rockets, is expected soon.
Beyond IPL Connections
It’s not just IPL owners making inroads. Other international investors are also joining the fray. Tech Titans have acquired a 49 percent stake in London Spirit, and Knighthead Capital Management, LLC, holds a similar 49 percent in Birmingham Phoenix.
Additionally, Washington Freedom has taken a 49 percent stake in Welsh Fire. These diverse investments highlight the growing global appeal and financial potential of The Hundred.
Massive Investment and Grassroots Impact
Collectively, these eight partnerships value The Hundred teams at over £975 million. More than £500 million is now set to be invested directly into English and Welsh cricket.
A substantial £50 million from this investment is specifically earmarked for grassroots cricket. This commitment aims to ensure the sport continues to flourish at all levels, from local clubs to elite professional play, securing a vibrant future for the game.
- IPL franchise owners are becoming strategic partners in England’s The Hundred.
- Key Indian investors include RPSG Group (Manchester Originals), Sun TV Network (Northern Superchargers), GMR Group (Southern Brave), and potentially Reliance Group (Oval Invincibles).
- The deals represent over £975 million in team valuation and more than £500 million in new investment for English and Welsh cricket.
- A significant portion of the investment, £50 million, is dedicated to grassroots cricket development.
This global collaboration signifies a new chapter for cricket, blending international expertise with local development to strengthen the sport’s foundation.
