Delhi Capitals are reportedly trying to purchase stakes in English county team Hampshire.
The Delhi Capitals, a prominent Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, are reportedly in advanced discussions to acquire stakes in the English county side Hampshire. According to a report in the 'Daily Telegraph,' the former Hampshire chairman, Rod Bransgrove, who still holds the majority share in the club, is on the verge of finalizing a deal to sell the county side to the GMR Group, co-owners of the Delhi Capitals.
The report states, 'Hampshire County Cricket Club's primary shareholder is in advanced talks to sell his stake to the part-owners of the Indian Premier League team Delhi Capitals.'
If the agreement materializes, it would mark Hampshire as the first county side "owned by an overseas franchise," as indicated in the report. The acquisition could provide several benefits for GMR, including establishing a presence in English cricket. With the growing popularity of The Hundred franchise tournament in England, the deal could offer GMR a "first-mover advantage" and assist the IPL franchise in nurturing its own talent.
This development coincides with reports suggesting that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is exploring the possibility of opening up 50 percent stakes in a few Hundred teams and allowing host counties the option to sell their shares. Bransgrove, who served as Hampshire's chairman for nearly 23 years, stepped down from his position last year but still maintains a majority share of over 60 percent.
The report notes that Hampshire, along with Northamptonshire and Durham, is one of the three county clubs not owned by its members, providing Bransgrove the flexibility to sell his stakes without fan input. Bransgrove is recognized for his role in developing the Ageas Bowl, which is set to host an Ashes Test for the first time in 2027.
Hampshire previously had a partnership with the IPL side Rajasthan Royals from 2010 to 2013 and participated in T20 cricket as Hampshire Royals. GMR currently holds a 50 percent stake in the Delhi Capitals across both the IPL and Women's Premier League (WPL). Additionally, they own Dubai Capitals in the UAE's ILT20 and have a share in the USA's Major League Cricket side Seattle Orcas.
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 "Delhi Capitals in advanced talks for stakes in English county side Hampshire: Report")
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