After South Africa and the USA, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings are now interested in expanding footprints to the UK. The two IPL franchises are looking to invest in The Hundred. The pet project of England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) wants to restructure after the 100-ball tournament failed to live up to the hype.
As per a Cricbuzz report, the Sun TV Network, parent company of Sunrisers Hyderabad, has already held talks with the ECB officials. However, a final call will only be taken in April when ECB decides on the privatisation of the game.
Since expanding the footprints to South Africa’s SA20, Sunrisers have found success with Sunrisers Eastern Cape winning the title in the first two editions.
CSK & DC interested too
Another IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings too are looking at the UK. CSK have already invested in the SA20 and USA’s Major League Cricket. The UK seems to be their next destination. However, Super Kings are still waiting for a concrete offer from the ECB before deciding.
Similarly, Delhi Capitals co-owner GMR Group that owns Dubai Capitals in ILT20 and Pretoria Capitals in SA20 is in talks with Hampshire county.
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BCCI silent
However, BCCI remains silent on the matter. The Indian board expressed concerns regarding IPL franchises investing in foreign leagues. The BCCI fears that with Indian companies’ investment, the foreign leagues may become powerful enough to compete with the IPL counterparts.
Ahead of the IND vs ENG 3rd Test in Rajkot, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah refused to comment on the matter. He said it is an internal matter of BCCI and the franchises.
It must be noted that BCCI had earlier tried to persuade the IPL franchises from not investing in foreign leagues.
