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The Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, Delhi Capitals (DC) on Monday, September 30 acquired a new team, marking a historic milestone in the world of cricket. The GMR Group, who are the co-owners of the DC side in the IPL, has acquired the Hampshire Cricket, making it the first instance of a county cricket team being acquired by an international company, setting a benchmark in world cricket.
As informed by ESPNcricinfo, the GMR Group’s parent company, GGPL will initially hold a 53 percent stake in Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings Ltd with a completed 100 percent acquisition expected in the next two years. Notably, Hampshire Cricket, which was founded in 1863, is one of the 18 First Class counties associated with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).
GMR Group likely seeking acquisition of Southern Brave in The Hundred
Although the acquisition might not have an immediate impact on ECB’s proposal to privatise The Hundred, but the partnership is likely to bring in some control on The Hundred team, Southern Brave. Moreover, the ongoing sale of equity stakes in the eight-team tournament will involve 51 percent stakes being transferred to the host countries, Hampshire in this case, but the process includes a mechanism which would require GMR to pay fair market value for remaining 49 percent.
While GMR Group will be the majority stake holders in the club, Rob Bransgrove will continue as Group Chairman until September 30, 2026 with David Mann retaining his role as the Group CEO.
Speaking of the GMR Group, the business firm made its first major sporting investment in 2008 when they brought Delhi Daredevils. In 2018, GMR sold a 50 percent ownership stake in the franchise to Jindal South West (JSW). In cricket, the GMR Group also owns the Dubai Capitals (ILT20) and has a stake in Seattle Orcas (MLC).
Speaking after this big move, GMR Group owner, Kiran Kumar Granthi expressed excitement. "We are thrilled to welcome Hampshire Cricket into the GMR family. This acquisition is a testament to our commitment to global sports and our belief in the power of cricket to unite people. We look forward to working with the Hampshire team to create a sustainable and successful future for the club," Granthi said.
