The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has pledged to resist an “IPL takeover” of its cricket league, The Hundred, as the competition attracts significant attention from IPL franchises and US-based investors. With the second-round bidding deadline closing on Monday, county teams are now deliberating over potential partnerships for joint ventures.

Reports suggest that eight of the ten IPL franchises are actively involved, engaging in extensive discussions with county teams over the last two months. Alongside IPL teams, private equity firms and American investors, including those with established stakes in English football, have also joined the race.

American investors and IPL franchises eye stake as The Hundred’s sales progresses 

According to ESPNcricinfo, Avram Glazer, co-owner of Manchester United, has submitted two second-round bids. Other prominent bidders include Cain International, led by Chelsea co-owner Jonathan Goldstein, and Knighthead Capital, owners of Birmingham City.

The ECB is targeting at least £350 million from the process and is keen on ensuring a diverse investment pool. ECB chairman Richard Thompson, speaking to Wisden Cricket Monthly, emphasized the long-term potential of The Hundred after getting involved with the  American investors.

“This won’t turn into an IPL takeover. There’s a vast amount of American money—sophisticated investors who understand franchise sports. We invented sport; they invented the franchise. They’re here for the long-term”, Thompson stated. 

Highlighting the appeal of the English market, he added, “They know we have the best time zone globally. If you’re looking to maximize media rights, you see how undervalued our domestic product is compared to the success of rugby and football.”

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The IPL’s influence on global cricket has grown significantly, with franchises heavily investing in leagues such as the MLC, ILT20, CPL, and South Africa’s SA20, where IPL teams hold major stakes.

Notably, ECB seeks to capitalize The Hundred while being determined to safeguard its league’s identity, ensuring a balanced approach between profitability and retaining its unique English character.