NEW DELHI: The Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, Delhi Capitals, is reportedly in "advanced talks" to acquire stakes in the English county side Hampshire, according to a report in the 'Daily Telegraph.'
Former Hampshire chairman Rod Bransgrove, who still holds the majority share in the club, is said to be close to finalizing a deal with the co-owners of Delhi Capitals, the GMR Group.
The report indicates that if the deal materializes, Hampshire would become the first county side to be owned by an overseas franchise, potentially marking a significant development in English cricket ownership.
One of the potential benefits for GMR Group could be gaining a foothold in the English game. With the popularity of The Hundred franchise tournament in England, the acquisition could provide GMR with a "first-mover advantage" and aid the IPL franchise in developing its own players.
Amid reports that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is considering allowing 50 percent stakes in certain Hundred teams and giving host counties the option to sell their shares, this move by Delhi Capitals aligns with the evolving landscape of cricket ownership.
Rod Bransgrove, who served as the chairman of Hampshire for nearly 23 years before relinquishing his post last year, still holds over 60 percent of the shares. The report notes that Hampshire is one of the three county clubs, along with Northamptonshire and Durham, not member-owned, enabling Bransgrove to potentially sell his stakes without fan input.
Hampshire had previously collaborated with IPL side Rajasthan Royals between 2010 and 2013, participating in T20 cricket as Hampshire Royals.
GMR Group currently holds a 50 percent stake in Delhi Capitals across both the IPL and the 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.
(With inputs from PTI)
