The co-owners of IPL franchise Delhi Capitals, GMR Group, on Monday (September 30) bought county team Hampshire Cricket. In what is a historic move, it is the first time a private group has acquired a county cricket team.

GMR Group, owned by Kiran Kumar Granthi, has acquired a 100 per cent stake in Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings Limited (HSLHL), the parent company of Hampshire Cricket. They will complete the entire acquisition in the next 24 hours in phases.

Delhi Capitals co-owner will pay £45 million for a 100 per cent stake (Rs 450-500 million) in Hampshire. First, GMR will buy 53 per cent for 23 million pounds (Rs 230-300 crore) and will buy the remaining 47 per cent over the next two years. There is little incentive involved in this, and it will be subject to Hampshire delivering on promised results.

Since owners Delhi Capitals now have the rights to The Hampshire, they will now own The Hampshire’s ground, Utilita Bowl, along with the adjacent golf course. Not only this, the Hilton hotel, which is located on one side of the land, will also be owned by the Indian company. Both sides formally agreed to the main terms and conditions a year ago.

We are delighted to welcome Hampshire Cricket to the GMR family – co-owner of Delhi Capitals

Speaking about the development, Delhi Capitals co-owner and GMR Group owner Kiran Kumar Granthi said they are delighted to welcome Hampshire Cricket. While talking about his plans, he said that they are creating a sustainable and successful future for the club. Speaking to Cricbuzz, he explained:

“We are delighted to welcome Hampshire Cricket to the GMR family. This acquisition is a testament to our commitment to global sports and our belief in the power of cricket to bring people together. We look forward to working with the Hampshire team to create a sustainable community and successful future for the club.

Although the GMR group has acquired Hampshire, the management team will continue to exist. Rod Bransgrove will continue to serve as group chairman until at least September 2026, and David Mann will be group chief executive. They, together with the Indian company, will work to develop short, medium and long-term strategies for the constant growth of the club and its operations.

Rod Bransgrove, while talking about the same, says that it is a dream come true for them. While talking about the team’s achievements he stated:

“This is the fulfillment of a dream for me and, I hope, for all Hampshire Cricket fans. Beyond our team’s achievements on the field over the last 24 years, we have transformed our stadium into a match and events venue world-class test venue and one of the country’s most exceptional cricket and leisure facilities. We have also been pioneers in the development of women’s cricket and have constantly innovated throughout our relatively short history.

GMR Group, owners of Delhi Capitals, will now also take a stake in Hampshire side Southern Brave in The Hundred.