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In a significant development for English cricket, former international cricketer Kevin Pietersen has played a pivotal role in brokering a landmark deal between the co-owners of Delhi Capitals and Hampshire Cricket. This new “strategic partnership” with the GMR Group was officially announced on Monday, with Pietersen describing it as a “historic day in English cricket.”
Pietersen’s Connection to the Deal
Pietersen, who represented Hampshire from 2005 to 2010 and later played for Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League (IPL), has maintained a close relationship with Kiran Kumar Grandhi, the chairman of GMR. The two attended a recent T20I match between England and Australia at the Utilita Bowl, further solidifying their connection.
While Pietersen does not have any formal business interests in either GMR or Hampshire, his informal role in introducing the two parties has been acknowledged by both sides. “HISTORIC DAY in English Cricket! Congrats to everyone on this journey,” he tweeted following the announcement. “It’s only the start…. LFG! [Let’s f***ing go].”
Insights from Hampshire’s Leadership
Rod Bransgrove, chairman of Hampshire’s parent company, revealed that he spent 18 months engaging with potential investors worldwide before selecting GMR as partners. Bransgrove highlighted GMR’s ethos, family orientation, and commitment to social responsibility as key factors in their decision.
Bransgrove confirmed Pietersen’s involvement, stating, “Kevin takes an ambassadorial role for GMR and we’ve certainly spoken to him once or twice. He’s been very interested in the potential for this because he knows both cultures well.”
GMR’s Future Plans
The GMR Group is currently pursuing a 49% stake in Southern Brave, another team involved in the ECB’s privatization of The Hundred competition. However, Bransgrove clarified that the agreement with GMR predates any discussions about changes to ownership models within The Hundred.
“When we struck this deal with GMR, we said that part of our asset base is a one-nineteenth interest in The Hundred competition,” Bransgrove explained. He emphasized that the valuation agreed upon would not be contingent on acquiring a franchise but would include provisions for future value increases should Hampshire be awarded a franchise.
Hampshire’s Aspirations
Bransgrove expressed his ambition for Hampshire to maintain its leadership position within English cricket, especially with the upcoming Ashes Test scheduled for 2027 at the Utilita Bowl. He stated that while business operations will continue as usual, having GMR’s backing will enhance their capabilities and open new opportunities.
“It’s going to be business as usual for Hampshire, except with the confidence of having GMR behind this,” he noted. “What will change over time is that we will start to benefit from the proliferation of cricket around the globe in the franchise format.”
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