Table of Contents
- Trent Rockets Welcome NSW Chair
- Oval Invincibles Deal Nears Completion
- Why These Deals Matter for The Hundred
- Global Investment in English Cricket Heats Up
- What This Means for Fans and Players
- Sources
Trent Rockets Welcome NSW Chair
In a significant boost to its leadership bench, Trent Rockets have announced the appointment of Cricket New South Wales (NSW) chair Greg Mail to their board. The move signals growing international collaboration in The Hundred, England’s high-octane domestic cricket competition, and underscores the tournament’s rising appeal among global cricket administrators.
Mail, a former first-class cricketer and long-time administrator with deep ties to Australia’s cricket ecosystem, brings strategic insight into franchise operations, talent development, and commercial partnerships. His involvement is expected to strengthen Trent Rockets’ off-field structure as the team looks to build on its competitive presence in both men’s and women’s competitions.
Oval Invincibles Deal Nears Completion
Meanwhile, the long-anticipated acquisition of the Oval Invincibles franchise is finally reaching its conclusion. Surrey County Cricket Club and India’s Reliance Industries—already co-owners of the Mumbai Indians in the IPL—are poised to finalize their joint ownership agreement after months of negotiations.
The partnership, first reported in early 2024, aims to inject IPL-level expertise, marketing muscle, and global scouting networks into one of The Hundred’s most popular teams. With a home base at the historic Kia Oval in London, the Oval Invincibles have consistently drawn large crowds and boast a star-studded roster, including England internationals like Jason Roy and Lauren Bell.
Key Franchise Ownership Shifts in The Hundred (2025)
| Franchise | New/Confirmed Stakeholders | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Oval Invincibles | Surrey CCC + Reliance Industries | Deal imminently finalizing |
| Trent Rockets | Greg Mail (NSW Chair) joins board | Official appointment confirmed |
| Manchester Originals | Exploring Middle East investment | Rumored |
Why These Deals Matter for The Hundred
Since its 2021 debut, The Hundred has walked a tightrope between innovation and tradition. While it succeeded in attracting new audiences—especially families and younger fans—questions lingered about long-term financial sustainability and global competitiveness compared to leagues like the IPL or BBL.
The entry of high-profile international stakeholders like Reliance and seasoned administrators like Greg Mail marks a turning point. It validates The Hundred not just as a domestic experiment, but as a serious franchise product with global investment potential.
Global Investment in English Cricket Heats Up
Reliance’s move into The Hundred follows a broader trend of cross-border cricket investments. With the IPL’s success as a blueprint, global conglomerates are increasingly eyeing shorter-format leagues as both commercial ventures and talent incubators.
For the ECB, this influx offers a lifeline: reduced reliance on public funding, enhanced broadcast appeal, and stronger pathways for homegrown players through world-class coaching and infrastructure. “This isn’t just about money,” said one ECB insider. “It’s about embedding global best practices into English cricket’s future.”
What This Means for Fans and Players
For fans, expect more dynamic marketing, improved digital experiences, and possibly even international player crossovers between The Hundred and other leagues. For players—especially young English talent—the strengthened franchises could mean better contracts, elite training environments, and greater exposure.
As the Oval Invincibles and Trent Rockets evolve under new leadership, the 2026 season of The Hundred could mark its most competitive and globally connected chapter yet.