IPL Franchises Set Sights on The Hundred: A New Era in English Cricket

Major IPL franchises, including Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders, have bid to acquire teams in The Hundred, an English cricket competition run by the ECB. The ECB plans to sell a 49% stake in each franchise while retaining majority control. Final investors will be determined by early 2025.

In a significant move for English cricket, several prominent IPL franchises, such as the Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders, have officially placed bids to acquire teams in The Hundred, according to recent reports.

The English Cricket Board (ECB) has offered a 49% stake in each franchise, aiming to attract potential investors while maintaining majority control over the teams. Interested parties include the GMR Group and Avram Glazer, co-owner of Manchester United.

While the ECB plans to finalize investors by early 2025, they are cautious about underselling the league's potential. Some IPL teams, like Punjab Kings, opted out, raising concerns about passive investment. The ECB is exploring a 'hybrid' ownership model to balance control.

(With inputs from agencies.)