ECB keen on Indian market; IPL owners allowed to rename The Hundred teams with minority stakes – Reports

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is allowing Indian Premier League (IPL) owners to rename The Hundred teams even if they do not have a majority stake. Giving more control to the IPL owners indicates that England cricket's governing body is keen on the Indian market to make its unique format bigger.

IPL is arguably the biggest and richest cricket league in the world. Since its inception in 2008, the T20 franchise tournament has witnessed steady growth over the past 17 years. In July 2021, the ECB brought about a revolution by introducing the 100-ball format, mainly considering the growing popularity of the shorter format. However, it is fair to say that the tournament was not as well received as expected.

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According to a report in the Guardian, all 10 IPL owners are expected to bid, only if they get some control for their money. However, it is also noted that the amount contributed by several IPL owners will be the most crucial in allowing them to rename the team.

“All the IPL owners are saying they will bid, but they will want some control for their cash. It’s essentially a big brand play for the IPL so we expect them to push for name changes, which will depend on the amount they have invested,” a source told the Guardian.  

Mumbai Indians eye stake in ‘jewel in the crown’

IPL giant Mumbai Indians (MI) are targeting a 49% stake in London Spirit, said to be the biggest franchise in The Hundred. If all goes well, London Spirit will be the fourth franchise owned by Mumbai Indians after MI Cape Town (SA20), MI New York (MLC), and MI Emirates (ILT20). It means Ambani and Co. can also rename the London Spirit to MI London.

"London Spirit are viewed as the jewel in the crown of The Hundred auction and are expected to attract bids worth several times more than many of the other franchises when the ECB begins the process of selling 49% of the eight teams next month," said the report.

Meanwhile, inaugural IPL champions Rajasthan Royals are expected to make a bid for the Northern Superchargers. Delhi Capitals are understood to have already acquired a majority stake (51%) in Southern Brave.