Photo Credit: Instagram Photo of @hantscricket
Hampshire’s Cricket has finalized a deal with GMR Group, co-owners of the Indian Premier League franchise Delhi Capitals, for the takeover of the English County Championship club.
Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings stated that the new ownership will focus on further developing Hampshire’s cricket teams and pathways, as well as improving the facilities at the Utilita Bowl.
The 25,000-capacity Rose Bowl, also known as the Utilita Bowl, is a cricket ground and hotel complex located in West End, Hampshire, and has been home to Hampshire County Cricket Club since 2001.
The agreement, approved by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), makes Hampshire the first county cricket club to be owned by an overseas franchise.
Under the deal, GMR will initially acquire a majority stake in Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings, with full ownership expected to be completed within two years.
This acquisition aligns with GMR’s broader strategy of investing in global sports assets through its international platform.
Rod Bransgrove, Chairman of Hampshire Sport & Leisure said, “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 GMR as our partners due to their shared values and commitment to our vision. We believe GMR 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.”
GMR Group is a diversified Indian conglomerate established in 1978 and based in New Delhi, India, with a global presence.
The company operates in multiple sectors, including infrastructure, airports, power, and sports, and is well-known for its commitment to corporate social responsibility, focusing on initiatives in rural development, education, health, and skill development.
The acquisition aims to enhance the financial stability of Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings, which includes Hampshire Cricket, and will involve a significant capital investment to reduce the company’s leverage.
Grandhi Kiran Kumar, Corporate Chairman of GMR Group said, “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 GMR 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.”
Under the new ownership structure, Hampshire’s current leadership team will remain unchanged.
Rod Bransgrove will continue serving as Group Chairman until at least September 30, 2026, while David Mann will maintain his position as Group CEO. They will collaborate with GMR to develop short-term, medium-term, and long-term strategies aimed at the sustained growth of the club and its operations.
Cllr Keith House, Leader of Eastleigh Borough Council said, “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 20-year commitment to our arena is one we remain rightly proud of and look to continue.”
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
