Indian conglomerate GMR Group, owned by Kiran Kumar Granthi, has made a historic move by acquiring Hampshire Cricket, a county cricket team in England. This groundbreaking deal marks the first instance of an international company owning a county cricket team.
Under the agreement, GMR will acquire 100% stake in Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings Limited, the parent company of Hampshire Cricket, over the next 24 months. This acquisition will also give GMR control of the Southern Brave team in The Hundred league.
Hampshire Cricket, founded in 1863, is one of the prestigious First Class counties associated with the England and Wales Cricket Board. With this acquisition, GMR now also owns the Hampshire ground, Utilita Bowl, along with the adjacent golf course and Hilton Hotel.
Kiran Kumar Granthi expressed excitement over welcoming Hampshire Cricket into the GMR family, emphasizing the company’s commitment to global sports and the unifying power of cricket. Hampshire Cricket chairman, Rod Bransgrove, hailed the deal as the realization of a dream and a significant milestone for the club.
GMR Group’s sports division has been expanding its portfolio with investments in various leagues and franchises, including the Delhi Capitals in the IPL, Pro Kabaddi League, and Major League Cricket in the USA. The acquisition of Hampshire Cricket further solidifies GMR’s presence in the international cricket landscape and opens up new opportunities for collaboration and growth in the sport.
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