The Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise owners are poised to make a significant impact on the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) Hundred competition. As the ECB prepares to sell shares in its eight Hundred teams in September, it is eager to attract Indian capital. According to The Guardian, even minority investments will grant new owners substantial influence, as all ten IPL owners are expected to bid for shares.
Sources involved in the sale process indicate that IPL owners are seeking control in exchange for their investments. They are likely to push for name changes, with the extent of the changes depending on the amount invested. The Ambani family, owners of the Mumbai Indians and its sister franchises, is reportedly considering a substantial bid for the London Spirit team, with plans to rebrand it as MI London.
London Spirit is considered the most valuable team in the Hundred, and its sale is expected to generate a significant portion of the revenue. The ECB has been in discussions with potential investors for several months, including Hollywood actor Ryan Reynolds and Manchester United owner Avram Glazer. American owners of Birmingham City, Knighthead Capital, have also expressed interest in acquiring a stake in Birmingham Phoenix.
The Rajasthan Royals, IPL champions in 2008, are expected to bid for the Northern Superchargers as part of their acquisition of Yorkshire. The Delhi Capitals, who recently acquired Hampshire for 120 million pounds, are also likely to seek a stake in the Southern Brave.
These moves align with the growing global reach of the IPL. The league’s popularity and financial success have made it an attractive investment for international investors. The ECB’s decision to sell shares in the Hundred is seen as a strategic move to capitalize on this interest and further develop the competition.
