The GMR Group, co-owners of the IPL franchise Delhi Capitals, has finalized an agreement to purchase a majority stake in English county team Hampshire for 120 million pounds (approximately Rs 1278 crore). With this acquisition, Hampshire will become the first county team owned by an overseas entity, as GMR Group will control 51% of the shares. According to the Telegraph, the Delhi co-owners outbid the Lucknow Super Giants, another IPL franchise, with an offer that includes Hampshire’s debts of around 60 million pounds.
In addition to the shares, GMR Group will take over the Utilita Bowl cricket stadium, the Hilton hotel, and a golf course at the venue.
Besides their investment in Delhi Capitals, GMR Group also holds equal stakes in the Dubai Capitals (ILT20 side in the UAE) and Seattle Orcas (Major League Cricket team in the USA).
An official announcement from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Hampshire club officials, and the new owners is expected soon.
This significant investment might enable Hampshire to access some of Delhi Capitals’ young players for domestic tournaments like the Hundred, although currently, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) does not allow active Indian cricketers to participate in overseas tournaments.
In another notable development, Yorkshire, another English county side, has resumed discussions with Rajasthan Royals for a potential takeover of the Headingley-based club. This takeover would require the approval of 6000 Yorkshire members through a ballot.
