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In a significant development in the cricketing world, IPL franchise Delhi Capitals' joint-owners, the GMR Group, have agreed to take full ownership of the Hampshire county team. The deal is worth £120 million or (₹1,278 crore), according to a report in The Telegraph.
The GMR Group will also take a 51 percent stake in The Hundred franchise Southern Brave, with the option to complete a 100 percent takeover in the coming days, which is also expected to go through. GMR beat a similar second bid from the rival IPL franchise, the Lucknow Super Giants.
Apart from the county club, GMR will also take control of its stadium, the Utilita Bowl, a Hilton hotel, and a golf course, which are all on the same site.
The report said that the club's original value was put at around £100 million (₹1,065 crore) but increased due to Utilita Bowl striking a deal with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to host a lot of international games, including an Ashes and India Test in the coming years.
GMR, in equal partnership with the JSW Group in owning Delhi Capitals' men's and women's teams, also owns 50 percent of Dubai Capitals in the ILT20 in the UAE and Seattle Orcas in the USA's Major League Cricket.
The deal needs to be ratified by the ECB which will make Hampshire the first county to be owned by an overseas franchise. GMR can then proceed with its complete takeover of the Southern Brave next month.
The report also mentioned that Rajasthan Royals are seeking a similar investment in Yorkshire although that deal, if it happens, will take some more time.
Hampshire hoping to get access to Delhi Capitals players
The report added that after the deal goes through, Hampshire will attempt to sign Delhi Capitals' youngsters for its domestic season and challenge for titles.
It said that although the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) doesn't permit Indian players to play in franchise leagues like The Hundred, it might have to change its stance now.
