GGMR Group Signs £43 Million Deal to Acquire Hampshire Cricket Team

GMR Group, a prominent infrastructure conglomerate, has made history with a groundbreaking agreement to acquire Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings Ltd (HSLHL), the owner of Hampshire Cricket and the Utilita Bowl stadium. This landmark transaction marks the first instance of a county cricket team being acquired by an overseas company, a significant milestone in the world of cricket and sports business.

While the financial specifics of the deal have not been officially disclosed, sources suggest the total value is approximately £43 million (around ₹483 crore). Initially, GMR will secure a 53% stake in HSLHL and performance-linked incentives, with plans to acquire the remaining 47% over the next two years. This structured approach allows GMR to gradually deepen its involvement in Hampshire Cricket while ensuring a smooth transition and alignment with the organization’s goals.

This acquisition stands out in the industry as it encompasses not only the cricket team but also associated infrastructure, including the Utilita Bowl, which features a cricket stadium, hotel complex, and golf course. GMR intends to leverage its expertise in infrastructure development to implement a comprehensive master plan for the Utilita Bowl’s enhancement, which includes [specific details about the plan]. Additionally, the deal offers HSLHL shareholders potential incentives through

The acquisition has been facilitated through GMR Global Pte Ltd (GGPL), a subsidiary of GMR Group, which aims to invest in sports assets worldwide under the GMR Group’s umbrella. This landmark deal not only aids HSLHL in significantly reducing its debt but also lays the groundwork for long-term growth and financial sustainability, providing a fresh start for the organization.

With this acquisition, GMR is poised to strengthen its presence in the cricketing world, adding to its existing portfolio that includes In the Indian Premier League (IPL), the Delhi Capitals team and Women’s Premier League, as well as the Dubai Capitals in the ILT20 and Pretoria Capitals in the SA20. Additionally, GMR has invested in the Seattle Orcas team in Major League Cricket in the U.S. Beyond cricket, GMR Sports also owns franchises in the Pro Kabaddi League and the Ultimate Kho Kho League, showcasing its diverse interests in various sports and the breadth of its sports portfolio.

This GMR-Hampshire deal arrives at a time when the England Cricket Board is actively seeking investments from Indian corporate entities, especially those involved in the IPL, for The Hundred tournament. This partnership is expected to not only enhance Hampshire Cricket’s capabilities but also attract more international attention to the county’s cricketing endeavors. With the financial backing and strategic expertise of GMR, the Hampshire Cricket Team is poised to make significant strides in its performance and competitiveness.

Under the new ownership structure, HSLHL founder Rod Bransgrove will remain as Group Chairman until at least September 30, 2026, while David Mann will continue in his role as Group CEO. Bransgrove noted that HSLHL chose to partner with GGPL after a comprehensive selection process, emphasizing that both companies share a common vision for developing cricket in Hampshire. This collaborative spirit aims to foster innovation and growth, ultimately contributing to the wider cricketing landscape in the U.K. and beyond, instilling a sense of optimism for the future of Hampshire Cricket.

“We believe GGPL is the perfect organisation, with the right people, to build on our proud legacy. Becoming the first English cricket club to join an international cricket group will open exciting new opportunities as we embrace the globalisation of this great sport,” he added.

According to Grandhi Kirankumar, corporate chairman of GMR Group, GGPL is best suited to continue Rod’s legacy. “With this acquisition, along with our investments in the U.S., Dubai, and India, GMR is focused on engaging and connecting with the global youth.”

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