The Hundred, England’s innovative 100-ball cricket tournament, is poised to undergo a significant transformation as it embarks on a three-round bidding process to attract private investment through the sale of franchises. The England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has received expressions of interest from over a hundred parties, including high-profile individuals and established cricket franchises.
Hollywood actor Ryan Reynolds, co-owner of Wrexham football club, has expressed interest in acquiring the Welsh Fire team. Nine Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises, including Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, and Kolkata Knight Riders, are also keen on securing a stake in The Hundred.
Mumbai Indians, known for their global expansion strategy, have been in discussions with both The Lord’s (London Spirit) and The Oval (Oval Invincibles). The GMR group, co-owners of the Delhi Capitals, are interested in the Southern Brave franchise after their recent acquisition of Hampshire Cricket.
Birmingham (Birmingham Phoenix) and Leeds (Northern Superchargers) are attracting interest due to their strong Indian diaspora. Rajasthan Royals, co-owned by Manoj Badale, who is based in England, is also expected to make a bid.
Lucknow Supergiants owner Sanjeev Goenka is in talks with Avram Glazer, a shareholder in Manchester United and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who is seeking a stake in The Hundred.
The ECB’s decision to privatize The Hundred is aimed at raising investment and ensuring its long-term financial sustainability. The bidding process is expected to provide clarity on the level of Indian involvement in the tournament, as several IPL franchises are eager to expand their global presence.
