Photo Credit: Hampshire Cricket
This is the fulfilment of a dream for me and, I hope, for all Hampshire Cricket supporters. Beyond our team’s accomplishments on the field over the past 24 years, we have transformed our stadium into a premier Test Match and events venue and one of the most exceptional cricket and leisure facilities in the country. We have also been pioneers in the development of women’s cricket and have consistently innovated throughout this relatively short history.
After a thorough selection process, we chose GGPL as our partners due to their shared values and commitment to our vision. We believe GGPL is the perfect organization, 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 globalization of this great sport.
Rod Bransgrove, Chairman of Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings Group
GGPL is part of the GMR Group, a multi-diversified Indian conglomerate founded in 1978, headquartered in New Delhi, India, with a global presence. GMR Group operates across various sectors, including infrastructure, airports, power, and sports, and is highly regarded for its contributions to corporate social responsibility through initiatives in rural development, education, health, and skill development.
This acquisition is designed to strengthen the financial position of Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings Limited, including Hampshire Cricket, and will include a material injection of capital to reduce the leveraging of the Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings Group. GGPL has committed to furthering the development of Hampshire’s cricket teams and pathways, as well as enhancing the multi-sports and leisure facilities at the Utilita Bowl, including the stadium, hotel, and golf course. GGPL also emphasises the importance of respecting the traditions and culture of the game in England and Wales.
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. I believe GGPL is in the best position to carry Rod’s legacy forward and continue building on the strong foundation he has established.
With this acquisition, along with our investments in the US, Dubai, and India, GMR is focused on engaging and connecting with the global youth. We are committed to financial prudence, value creation, and creating opportunities for young talent. Our vision is to transform sports into a platform that unites people and cultures, drives global excellence, and nurtures the creation of future world champions.
Grandhi Kiran Kumar, Corporate Chairman of GMR Group
The principal terms and conditions of this agreement were formally agreed upon by the parties a year ago, with the enterprise value set at a fair market valuation. This valuation included all existing assets as well as providing incentives for Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings shareholders by way of additional consideration for possible future assets.
Under the new ownership structure, Hampshire’s existing leadership team will remain in place. Rod Bransgrove will continue as Group Chairman until at least 30 September 2026, and David Mann will retain his role as Group CEO. Together, they will work with GGPL to develop short, medium, and long-term strategies for the consistent growth of the club and its operations.
Both organisations view this acquisition as a landmark partnership, one that will drive the expansion of Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings’ sports infrastructure and community engagement. The collaboration promises to bolster the relationship between India and the UK, while also enhancing opportunities for growth within Hampshire’s cricket community and beyond.
International investment into sport in our Borough protects our world class venue for the future. It will reach new audiences and boost participation in cricket with more young people, capturing the energy of our new Indian partners with their nation’s passion for the game. Eastleigh Borough Council’s more than twenty year commitment to our arena is one we remain rightly proud of and look to continue.
Cllr Keith House, Leader of Eastleigh Borough Council
In particular, the agreement provides an opportunity to execute the masterplan for the Utilita Bowl site development, leveraging GMR’s global expertise and manpower. The goal is to foster the growth of both brands while maintaining financial stability and a shared belief in mutual success.
The GMR Group, a leading global infrastructure company, has significantly impacted the sports industry. Established in 2008, the sports business of GMR launched the Delhi Daredevils, the first IPL franchise from India’s capital. Currently, GMR holds a 50% stake in the Delhi Capitals (IPL and WPL), the Dubai Capitals (ILT20) and the Pretoria Capitals (SA20). The sports division has expanded its portfolio to include franchises in the Pro Kabaddi League and Ultimate Kho Kho League, promoting indigenous sports in India. Additionally, the sports division of GMR has invested in the Seattle Orcas team in Major League Cricket, USA.
This is an exciting time for Hampshire Cricket, and I’d like to welcome GGPL to cricket in England and Wales. I am pleased to see their commitment to continuing to develop Hampshire’s cricket teams and pathways and enhance facilities at Utilita Bowl, and their respect for the traditions of the game in this country. This announcement also demonstrates the global interest in investing in cricket in England and Wales, and underlines the continuing appeal of county cricket.
I’d like to thank Rod Bransgrove for all he has done in transforming Hampshire and creating a world-class stadium, and look forward to continuing to work together in his role as Group Chair.
With the Men’s team doing well in the County Championship, the Women’s team competing in Tier One of the new domestic structure next year and Utilita Bowl hosting its first Men’s Ashes Test in 2027, there is lots for Hampshire supporters to look forward to.
Richard Gould, ECB Chief Executive Officer
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
