On Monday, English cricket officials confirmed discussions with Indian Premier League (IPL) owners about potential investments in their domestic Hundred competition. The fourth season of the 100-ball-per-side tournament, featuring eight specially created teams with both men's and women's sides, begins on Tuesday. Despite its success, the future of The Hundred remains uncertain, prompting the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to seek private investment to secure its place in the global cricket calendar and enhance domestic cricket finances.
The ECB aims to strike a balance between obtaining financial support and maintaining control over The Hundred by offering 49 percent stakes in each team to private investors while ensuring host teams keep the remaining 51 percent of shares. However, host teams have the option to sell part or all of their shares.
ECB chief executive Richard Gould pointed out that control is retained at both team and competition levels, stating that they are not relinquishing control of the tournament itself. He acknowledged that different investor groups have varying priorities, with some focusing on on-field control and others on commercial interests. Gould highlighted the significance of the Indian market, which accounts for a substantial portion of ICC revenues, and welcomed the expansion of IPL teams into other national markets.
The lucrative T20 IPL has revolutionised the global cricket landscape, offering players lucrative careers without the need to endure five-day Test matches. There is speculation that IPL owners, such as the Ambani family who own the Mumbai Indians, may seek full ownership of a Hundred team.
Gould indicated that 100 percent ownership is a possibility, depending on the investors' financial and operational capabilities. The ECB's director of business operations, Vikram Banerjee, revealed ongoing talks with IPL and Women's Premier League (WPL) owners, expressing optimism about potential partnerships. Banerjee also mentioned outreach to NFL owners, providing them with information about cricket and its rules.
Banerjee praised the IPL teams for their expertise and success in cricket and expressed excitement about the potential collaboration. He noted that NFL owners bring valuable experience in fan engagement and stadium management, which could benefit The Hundred. The goal is to create a blend of expertise from both cricket and other sports to enhance the tournament's appeal and reach.