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Delhi Capitals engage in discussions for stakes in Hampshire county cricket team: Report

Hampshire, being one of the three county clubs not member-owned (alongside Northamptonshire and Durham), provides Bransgrove the flexibility to sell his stakes without requiring fan input.

By Omar | Jan 12, 2024 | 2 Min Read

The Delhi Capitals, a prominent Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, are reportedly in advanced discussions to acquire stakes in the English county side of Hampshire. According to a report in the ‘Daily Telegraph,’ the majority shareholder of Hampshire, former chairman Rod Bransgrove, is nearing an agreement to sell the county side to GMR Group, the co-owners of Delhi Capitals. Should the deal materialize, Hampshire would become the first county side “owned by an overseas franchise.” The move is seen as an opportunity for GMR to establish a presence in English cricket, particularly with the growing popularity of The Hundred franchise tournament.

The report suggests that this strategic move could provide GMR with a “first-mover advantage” and aid the IPL franchise in the development of its own players. Amid speculations that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is exploring the option of opening up 50 % stakes in certain Hundred teams, this potential acquisition aligns with evolving ownership dynamics in English cricket. Rod Bransgrove, who served as Hampshire’s chairman for almost 23 years, stepped down from his role last year but continues to hold a majority share of over 60 %.

Hampshire, being one of the three county clubs not member-owned (alongside Northamptonshire and Durham), provides Bransgrove the flexibility to sell his stakes without requiring fan input. Bransgrove is recognized for developing the Ageas Bowl, which is set to host an Ashes Test in 2027 for the first time.

This move follows Hampshire’s previous partnership with the IPL side Rajasthan Royals between 2010 and 2013, playing T20 cricket as Hampshire Royals.

GMR currently holds a 50 % stake in 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, the Seattle Orcas.