The GMR Group, through GMR Airports Limited, has acquired a 49% stake in Hampshire County Cricket Club from the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for Rs 12 billion ($143 million), with the option to acquire the remaining 51% as well.
GMR, equal co-owner with JSW Sports of IPL franchise Delhi Capitals, completed the stake acquisition in Hampshire on Wednesday, September 18, in what is the first entry of an overseas investor into the English county set-up.
This investment includes not only a stake in the Hampshire County Cricket Club, but also ownership of the Utilita Bowl (South Bowl) ground, the Hilton Hotel, and an 18-hole golf course.
The latest deal also beefs up GMR’s cricket portfolio which already features an IPL team, ILT20 in the UAE and the Major League Cricket franchise in the USA.
