Hampshire Cricket Club is set to be acquired by Indian multinational enterprise GMR Global Pte Ltd (GGPL), which has secured a majority stake in the club’s parent company.
The New Delhi-headquartered company has signed a deal with Hampshire Sport and Leisure Holdings Limited, the owner of Hampshire Cricket and the club’s Utilita Bowl stadium.
Terms of the contract will see GMR Group acquire full 100% ownership of Hampshire Cricket at some point over the next 24 months. The deal also includes an initial reduction of HS&LH’s debt, which the duo state will set the stage for ‘long-term growth and financial sustainability’.
“This is an exciting time for Hampshire Cricket, and I’d like to welcome GGPL to cricket in England and Wales,” said Richard Gould, ECB CEO.
“I am pleased to see their commitment to continuing to develop Hampshire’s cricket teams and pathways and enhance facilities at Utilita Bowl, and their respect for the traditions of the game in this country. This announcement also demonstrates the global interest in investing in cricket in England and Wales, and underlines the continuing appeal of county cricket.
“I’d like to thank Rod Bransgrove for all he has done in transforming Hampshire and creating a world-class stadium, and look forward to continuing to work together in his role as Group Chair.
“With the Men’s team doing well in the County Championship, the Women’s team competing in Tier One of the new domestic structure next year and Utilita Bowl hosting its first Men’s Ashes Test in 2027, there is lots for Hampshire supporters to look forward to.”
GMR Group was founded in 1978 and has a diverse business portfolio encompassing airports, energy, highways and urban development. Sports is an added area of interest for the company.
The firm’s flagship holding being the Delhi Capitals of the high-value, widely-watched Indian Premier League (IPL), whilst also owning UP Yoddhas of the Pro Kabbadi League. Its ownership of the Capitals is shared with the JSW Group, which has also sponsored the Capitals.
“What initially attracted me to Hampshire was the way it was run by Rod Bransgrove, whose leadership ethos closely mirrors that of the GMR Group,” remarked Grandhi Kiran Kumar, Corporate Chairman of GMR Group.
“I believe GGPL is in the best position to carry Rod’s legacy forward and continue building on the strong foundation he has established. With this acquisition, along with our investments in the US, Dubai, and India, GMR is focused on engaging and connecting with the global youth.
“We are committed to financial prudence, value creation, and creating opportunities for young talent. Our vision is to transform sports into a platform that unites people and cultures, drives global excellence, and nurtures the creation of future world champions.”
