A significant announcement was made on Wednesday regarding the owners of four major IPL (Indian Premier League) franchises. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has formally confirmed these franchise owners as strategic partners for their T20 league, 'The Hundred'.
Sports News: The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed four major Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise owners as strategic partners in 'The Hundred' tournament. Under this partnership, GMR Group, Sun TV Network Limited, RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group (RPSG), and Reliance Industries have been granted stakes in 'The Hundred' teams. According to the ECB, this move marks a significant turning point for the global development of cricket and will provide the sport with financial assistance worth millions of pounds.
In an official statement on Wednesday, the ECB stated that these partners will be handed over operational control of the respective teams by October 1, 2025. This is the first time the ECB has allowed foreign investment in 'The Hundred's franchise model.
Which Groups Have Partnered?
- Reliance Group (Owners of Mumbai Indians): Stake in the Oval Invincibles team.
- RPSG Group (Owners of Lucknow Super Giants): Name yet to be publicly disclosed.
- GMR Group (Co-owners of Delhi Capitals): Stake in one team confirmed.
- Sun TV Network Limited (Owners of Sunrisers Hyderabad): Partner in one team.
The teams of these four groups are already known for their b presence in the IPL, and now these groups are also establishing themselves in England's prestigious 100-ball cricket league, 'The Hundred'.
ECB's Strategy and Global Perspective
The ECB stated that this decision is entirely based on strategic partnership, in which the new partners will participate in the brand development, fan engagement, and business operations of the teams. However, the ECB will retain control over the league's format, rules, and schedule. ECB CEO Richard Gould said, "This is a historic moment for The Hundred. Through these partnerships, not only will the league expand, but it will also provide English cricket with a major economic boost.”
Background of Foreign Investment in The Hundred
The Hundred was launched in 2021, with each team playing matches in 100 balls. The league aims to connect traditional and new fans. So far, the tournament has been quite popular at both the men's and women's levels. IPL teams have already invested in South Africa's SA20 league and the UAE's ILT20 league. Now, their presence in England is an indication that the influence of Indian franchises in global cricket is continuously increasing.
This partnership is considered another major step towards the commercialization of cricket. IPL franchises are now investing in various leagues around the world, transforming themselves into a global sports enterprise.
