The Indian multinational behind the Indian Premier League’s Delhi Capitals has made history by becoming the first overseas owner of an English county after acquiring a majority stake in Hampshire. The landmark £120m deal, which has been green-lighted by the England and Wales Cricket Board, will see GMR Group immediately take control of Hampshire, with plans to achieve a full takeover within the next two years. However, the agreement does not encompass the complete acquisition of Southern Brave, the Hundred team that plays at the Utilita Bowl. Although Hampshire holds a 51% stake in the franchise, GMR will need to negotiate a fair market value for the remaining 49% stake as part of the ECB’s ongoing divestment strategy.
“This marks the realization of a long-held dream for me and, I trust, for all Hampshire Cricket supporters,” expressed Rod Bransgrove, the club’s current majority shareholder, who will remain as group chair for at least the next two years. “Joining an international cricket group as the first English cricket club will unlock thrilling new prospects as we embrace the global expansion of this wonderful sport.” Hampshire stands alongside Northamptonshire and Durham as one of three counties not owned by members, allowing Bransgrove to proceed with the sale without the need for fan approval.
The transaction also includes an immediate, albeit undisclosed, financial infusion aimed at reducing Hampshire’s debt and enhancing the facilities at the stadium, the adjacent hotel, and golf course. Grandhi Kiran Kumar, corporate chairman of GMR Group, expressed his delight at Hampshire’s inclusion in a sports portfolio that already boasts a 50% stake in the IPL’s Delhi Capitals, the Dubai Capitals in the UEA’s ILT20, and the Seattle Orcas in Major League Cricket. “With this acquisition, alongside our investments in the US, Dubai, and India, GMR is dedicated to engaging and connecting with the global youth,” he stated. “We are steadfast in our commitment to financial responsibility, value generation, and the cultivation of young talent. Our vision is to evolve sports into a unifying platform that fosters global excellence and nurtures the emergence of future world champions.”
The ECB’s chief executive officer, Richard Gould, also expressed his enthusiasm for the move. “This is a thrilling moment for Hampshire, and I extend a warm welcome to GGPL in the realm of cricket in England and Wales. I am gratified to witness their dedication to furthering the development of Hampshire’s cricket teams and pathways, as well as enhancing the facilities at Utilita Bowl, while respecting the cherished traditions of the game in this country.”
