IPL franchise teams have now turned their attention in investing in England. While private investors and other major franchises are keen in buying stakes, the English Cricket Board (ECB) is keen in brandishing a different look for The Hundred from the next season, i.e. 2025.
The third season of the The Hundred kick starts today. And as things stand, IPL franchises are keen on working on their business plans to expand their market in England.
“We’re about to enter a commercial negotiation, but at a principal level, this will run very similar to other franchise leagues around the world. We have spoken about the IPL owners. I’ve met all of them and taken feedback from them on specific things about what’s important,” said Vikram Banerjee, director of business operations of the ECB.
IPL Franchises interest in The Hundred
Though details were not revealed, but the ECB is not willing to hand over the control to the IPL franchises. If at all the the IPL teams manage to buy the teams, then 49% share of the teams would be sold. The ECB however is keen to retain the majority, i.e. 51% control of the teams.
Early next year in 2025, there will be major talks just before the start of the 2025 drafts for the league. While the ECB has claimed that it needs investor, but in now way they are willing to let go of the majority of the shares.
“That’s why we’re not selling the competition. That’s why we’re focused on those teams. And I think we’re finding that different investor groups have different needs. For some of them, control, for example, of what happens on the field will be very important. For others, branding will be important. The commercial element will also be significantly important,” said Richard Gould, the CEO of ECB.
