The 2025 edition of The Hundred has garnered significant attention with high-profile investors, sports team owners, and billionaire businessmen securing stakes in the upcoming season. Last summer, the England and Wales Cricket Board initiated a process to attract private investment for the 2025 season, which is set to be broadcast live on Sky Sports in August.
As the anticipation builds for the upcoming season, the valuation of the eight Hundred teams has reached an impressive £950 million. The ownership landscape has seen a mix of influential figures and consortiums stepping forward to invest in these teams. Let’s take a closer look at who owns which team and the notable partnerships that have emerged in the world of cricket.
Who Invested in The Hundred Teams?
Starting with the Birmingham Phoenix, the Knighthead Capital group secured a £40 million deal for the Edgbaston-based team. Notably, NFL legend Tom Brady is among the minority investors backing this venture. Stuart Cain, the CEO of Warwickshire, commended Knighthead for their financial commitment and global influence, highlighting their dedication to elevating high-performance sport.
Moving on to the London Spirit, a tech consortium consisting of 11 billionaires has acquired a 49% stake in the team, valued at an impressive £145 million. Notable figures like Nikesh Arora, the chairman and CEO of Palo Alto Networks, along with Sundar Pichai of Google and Satya Nadella of Microsoft, are part of this consortium, bringing a wealth of experience and resources to the Spirit.
In Manchester, the RPSG Group, owners of the Indian Premier League side Lucknow Super Giants, have secured the Manchester Originals. The bid was valued at over £100 million, signaling a strong partnership between the RPSG Group and Lancashire. Embracing a shared ambition, they aim to create an exciting future for cricket fans in Manchester and the wider North West region.
Ownership Dynamics Across The Hundred Teams
The Northern Superchargers have caught the attention of the Sun Group, owners of Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL. The acquisition of the Headingley-based team for around £100 million marks a significant investment in cricket. The financial windfall is set to benefit Yorkshire and potentially alleviate their existing debt.
The Southern Brave, fully owned by the GMR Group, have established a strong presence in the cricketing landscape. With a 49% stake secured for approximately £48 million, the Brave’s connection to the IPL brings a new dimension to their ownership structure. The GMR Group’s investment in Hampshire adds to their growing influence in cricket.
Chelsea’s Todd Boehly, through his company Cain International, has acquired a 49% stake in the Trent Rockets for close to £40 million. With an extensive sporting portfolio that includes ownership of the Los Angeles Dodgers and the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks, Boehly’s entry into the cricketing arena adds a fresh perspective to the Rockets.
Concluding with the Welsh Fire, the Washington Freedom franchise owners, supported by Indian-American IT entrepreneur Sanjay Govil, have purchased a 49% stake in the Cardiff-based team. Their bid of approximately £65 million signifies a significant investment in the Fire, setting the stage for an exciting partnership in the upcoming season.
As The Hundred gears up for the 2025 season, these strategic investments and ownership arrangements promise an engaging and competitive tournament. With a diverse mix of stakeholders and established figures entering the cricketing realm, fans can look forward to a dynamic and thrilling season ahead. Watch every match live this August on Sky Sports to witness the action unfold.
