India expands influence in English cricket as Delhi Capitals’ owners acquire majority stake in Hampshire
Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise owners are expanding their footprint globally, venturing into English county cricket. The GMR Group, co-owner of the Delhi Capitals, has acquired a majority stake in Hampshire Cricket, setting a precedent as the first overseas entity to own an English county team.
GMR Group’s Acquisition of Hampshire Cricket
The GMR Group, a prominent Indian infrastructure conglomerate with strong ties to cricket, is set to initially hold a 53% stake in Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings Ltd, the parent company of Hampshire Cricket. Over the next two years, they plan to increase their ownership to full control. This deal includes the club’s operations and the renowned cricket ground, the Utilita Bowl in Southampton.
The acquisition follows former Hampshire chairman Rob Bransgrove’s decision to sell his 60% share. Bransgrove will remain as Group Chairman until at least 2026, overseeing the transition and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations.
Cricket’s Globalisation: IPL Owners Expand into English County Cricket
GMR’s involvement in English cricket is part of a broader trend where IPL owners are seeking opportunities beyond the Indian market. They already own the Dubai Capitals in the ILT20 and have a stake in the Seattle Orcas in Major League Cricket (MLC). This move into English cricket is a significant step in solidifying their global cricket ambitions.
The increasing trend of Indian investments in overseas cricket leagues, particularly by IPL franchise owners, opens new possibilities for collaborations and partnerships in the cricket world. GMR’s investment in Hampshire is seen as the start of a shift, with future potential for increased collaboration between IPL franchises and English county cricket.
Impact on The Hundred and Southern Brave
Although GMR’s acquisition includes Hampshire Cricket, it does not immediately transfer ownership of the Southern Brave, a franchise in The Hundred based at the Utilita Bowl. However, as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) considers selling equity stakes in The Hundred franchises, there is potential for GMR to acquire a share in Southern Brave, connecting county and franchise cricket interests in England.
A New Chapter for Hampshire
Under Bransgrove’s leadership, Hampshire has grown significantly since relocating to the Utilita Bowl. With GMR’s backing, Hampshire aims to enhance its facilities further, continuing to host high-profile matches, including its ambitions to host its first-ever Ashes Test in 2027. GMR’s Corporate Chairman, Grandhi Kiran Kumar, expressed excitement about the acquisition, highlighting the vision to use sports as a platform for global unity and excellence.
ECB’s Perspective and the Road Ahead
The ECB’s chief executive, Richard Gould, welcomed GMR’s investment as a testament to the growing global interest in English cricket. Gould sees this as a sign of the enduring appeal of county cricket and its potential for growth in the international arena.
The acquisition by GMR might be the beginning of more foreign investments in English county cricket, as Indian business giants continue to expand their influence globally, potentially reshaping the future of cricket both on and off the field.
Conclusion: IPL’s Influence Expands to England
GMR’s acquisition of Hampshire marks the start of a new era in international cricket ownership, as Indian business interests continue to spread across the global cricket landscape. This move reflects the increasing interconnectedness between cricket nations, leagues, and businesses. With IPL team owners stepping into English county cricket, the sport is poised for significant changes, paving the way for a new chapter in English cricket’s storied history.