New owners have been confirmed for Hampshire County Cricket Club and the Utilita Bowl after investment from the owners of an Indian Premier League Club.

GMR Global Pte Ltd will take on the entire share capital of Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings in a pahsed acquisition.

It will also lead to an initial reduction of the company's debt.

Hampshire will become the first English county to have overseas ownership in this deal.

GGPL will initially acquire a majority stake in Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings Limited, with the completed acquisition of 100 per cent ownership expected within the next 24 months, labelling it the "start of a significant strategic partnership".

It currently holds a 50 per cent stake in IPL-side Delhi Capitals, the Dubai Capitals and the Pretoria Capitals.

Under the new ownership structure, Hampshire’s existing leadership team will remain in place, with Rod Bransgrove continuing as group chairman until at least September 30, 2026, and David Mann as group CEO.

Bransgrove said: "This is the fulfilment of a dream for me and, I hope, for all Hampshire Cricket supporters.

"Beyond our team’s accomplishments on the field over the past 24 years, we have transformed our stadium into a premier Test Match and events venue and one of the most exceptional cricket and leisure facilities in the country.

"We have also been pioneers in the development of women’s cricket and have consistently innovated throughout this relatively short history. After a thorough selection process, we chose GGPL as our partners due to their shared values and commitment to our vision.

"We believe GGPL is the perfect organization, with the right people, to build on our proud legacy. Becoming the first English cricket club to join an international cricket group will open exciting new opportunities as we embrace the globalization of this great sport.”

This transaction represents GGPL’s "broader vision of investing in global sports assets".

GGPL is part of the GMR Group, a multi-diversified Indian conglomerate founded in 1978 and headquartered in New Delhi.

GMR Group operates across various sectors, including infrastructure, airports, power, and sports.

This acquisition will include investment to reduce Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings Group's debt.

GGPL says it has committed to furthering the development of Hampshire’s cricket teams and pathways as well as enhancing the multi-sports and leisure facilities at the Utilita Bowl, including the stadium, hotel, and golf course.

Cllr Keith House, leader of Eastleigh Borough Council, said: “International investment into sport in our Borough protects our world-class venue for the future.

"It will reach new audiences and boost participation in cricket with more young people, capturing the energy of our new Indian partners with their nation’s passion for the game.

"Eastleigh Borough Council’s more than 20-year commitment to our arena is one we remain rightly proud of and look to continue.”

The principal terms and conditions of this agreement were formally agreed upon by the parties a year ago, with the enterprise value set at market valuation.

This valuation included all existing assets as well as providing incentives for Hampshire Sport & Leisure Holdings shareholders by way of additional consideration for possible future assets.

Grandhi Kirankumar, corporate chairman of GMR Group, added: “What initially attracted me to Hampshire was the way it was run by Rod Bransgrove, whose leadership ethos closely mirrors that of the GMR Group. I believe GGPL is in the best position to carry Rod's legacy forward and continue building on the strong foundation he has established.

“With this acquisition, along with our investments in the US, Dubai, and India, GMR is focused on engaging and connecting with the global youth. We are committed to financial prudence, value creation, and creating opportunities for young talent. Our vision is to transform sports into a platform that unites people and cultures, drives global excellence, and nurtures the creation of future world champions.”

Richard Gould, ECB's chief executive officer, continued: “This is an exciting time for Hampshire Cricket, and I’d like to welcome GGPL to cricket in England and Wales.

"I am pleased to see their commitment to continuing to develop Hampshire’s cricket teams and pathways and enhance facilities at Utilita Bowl, and their respect for the traditions of the game in this country.

"This announcement also demonstrates the global interest in investing in cricket in England and Wales and underlines the continuing appeal of county cricket.

"I’d like to thank Rod Bransgrove for all he has done in transforming Hampshire and creating a world-class stadium and look forward to continuing to work together in his role as Group Chair.

“With the Men’s team doing well in the County Championship, the Women’s team competing in Tier One of the new domestic structure next year and Utilita Bowl hosting its first Men’s Ashes Test in 2027, there is lots for Hampshire supporters to look forward to.”