Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has made a strategic move into cricket by purchasing a 49% share in the Hundred franchise Trent Rockets. This acquisition, valued at just under £40 million, is part of a broader trend of high-profile investments in cricket franchises. The deal, facilitated by Cain International, co-founded by Boehly and British businessman Jonathan Goldstein, values the Trent Rockets at £79 million. Nottinghamshire, the host of the Rockets at Trent Bridge, will retain the remaining 51% control.

Expanding Portfolio

Boehly, who led a consortium to acquire Chelsea for £4.25 billion in May 2022, continues to diversify his sports investments. His portfolio now includes a minority stake in the Los Angeles Dodgers and interests in several other sports-related ventures through Eldridge Industries. This latest acquisition underscores the growing appeal of cricket as a lucrative investment opportunity.

The Hundred Franchise Market

The sale of the Trent Rockets is part of a larger wave of investments in the Hundred franchises. To date, the total sales for stakes in the seven Hundred teams have surpassed £500 million, with an overall franchise valuation of around £820 million. Southern Brave is set to be the final franchise to be sold, with the co-owners of IPL team Delhi Capitals leading the race to acquire the Hampshire-based team.

Comparative Investments

Other notable investments in the Hundred franchises include:

• Oval Invincibles: A £60 million deal with Mumbai Indians owners.
• Birmingham Phoenix: A £40 million sale to Knighthead Capital.
• Welsh Fire: A £40 million deal with IT entrepreneur Sanjay Govil.
• London Spirit: A stake acquired by a consortium led by Nikesh Arora. These transactions highlight the increasing global interest and financial stakes in cricket.

Future Prospects

The funds raised from these sales will be distributed among the 18 first-class counties, the MCC, and recreational cricket. The partnerships are currently undergoing an eight-week exclusivity period to finalize details and solidify the collaborations.