Hampshire Finalizes Groundbreaking Takeover with Delhi Capitals Co-Owners GMR Group
Hampshire County Cricket Club has made history by becoming the first English county to be owned by an overseas franchise, following the completion of a takeover by the GMR Group, co-owners of the Delhi Capitals. The agreement, which has been officially ratified by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), ushers in a new era for the Southampton-based club.
GMR Group, a major player in the Indian Premier League (IPL), initially laid the groundwork for this acquisition over a year ago. The phased takeover will see GMR hold a majority stake in Hampshire immediately, with a full 100% acquisition targeted within the next two years.
GMR has a prominent footprint in global cricket, holding interests in the Delhi Capitals (IPL and Women’s Premier League), Dubai Capitals (International League T20), Pretoria Capitals (SA20), and the USA’s Seattle Orcas in Major League Cricket.
Rod Bransgrove, Hampshire’s majority shareholder, expressed his optimism about the partnership, emphasizing the alignment in values and vision between the two entities.
“This is the fulfilment of a dream for me and, I hope, for all Hampshire Cricket supporters. After a thorough selection process, we chose GMR as our partners due to their shared values and commitment to our vision,” Bransgrove said.
The deal, however, pertains solely to Hampshire County Cricket Club and does not impact the Hundred competition or the Southern Brave franchise based at Southampton’s Ageas Bowl.
GMR’s corporate chairman, Grandhi Kirankumar, lauded Bransgrove’s leadership and expressed his confidence in continuing the strong legacy of the club.
“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,” Kirankumar said. He added that the group is committed to investing in the club’s future and enhancing its facilities.
The takeover includes an immediate but undisclosed cash injection aimed at reducing Hampshire’s debt and upgrading its stadium, hotel, and golf course facilities. These assets are owned by Hampshire Sport & Holdings Group Ltd., which will benefit from GMR’s investment.
ECB chief executive officer Richard Gould welcomed the deal, calling it an exciting development for Hampshire and English cricket as a whole.
“This announcement demonstrates the global interest in investing in cricket in England and Wales, and underlines the continuing appeal of county cricket,” Gould said. He also praised Bransgrove for his role in transforming Hampshire into a modern cricket powerhouse.
The partnership between Hampshire and GMR marks a significant milestone in the globalization of county cricket, positioning the club for a prosperous future both on andoff the field.
