The Wrexham owners and the Glazer family are in discussions to invest in The Hundred cricket tournament, alongside other high-profile investors

Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, co-owners of Wrexham AFC, are reportedly in talks to invest in The Hundred, a popular cricket tournament in the UK. They are considering this venture alongside the Glazer family, known for their ownership of Manchester United and the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Hundred, entering its fourth season, features eight teams with both men’s and women’s sides, running from July 23 to August 18.

The Telegraph reports that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) will begin auctioning stakes in the teams this September. Reynolds and McElhenney, already successful in their football investment, are now interested in expanding their sports portfolio into cricket. The Hollywood duo purchased Wrexham in February 2021 through their RR McReynolds Company LLC and have seen the club rise from the National League to League One after consecutive promotions.

According to The Sun, Reynolds and McElhenney are particularly interested in Welsh Fire. The ECB is eager for them to attend a game to further evaluate the investment. Meanwhile, the Glazer family has expressed a firm interest in investing as well. The Glazers have prior experience in cricket, having invested in the Desert Vipers, a team in the Emirati International League T20.

Red Bull is also keen on investing in one of the teams, already sponsoring notable England cricket stars Ben Stokes and Alice Capsey. Despite significant interest, the ECB recently rejected a $1 billion offer for The Hundred from Indian Premier League founder Lalit Modi, fearing a loss of control over the domestic season.

The ECB plans to sell 49% stakes to investors while retaining 51% control with local hosts, ensuring they maintain authority over the teams. For example, if Reynolds and McElhenney invest in Welsh Fire, they will not be able to acquire full ownership. This structure is intended to balance investment while keeping the ECB’s regulatory grip intact.

The 2024 season of The Hundred will see the reigning champions, the Oval Invincibles and Southern Brave, compete in a format featuring 64 matches, equally divided between men’s and women’s teams. The top team progresses directly to the final, while the second and third-place teams compete in an eliminator for the final spot.

Analysis:

Political:

The potential investment by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in The Hundred reflects the intersection of celebrity influence and sports. Their involvement could sway public opinion and bring significant attention to the tournament, influencing political discussions about sports investments and the role of foreign investors in British sports. The ECB’s decision to retain control underscores the delicate balance between attracting investment and maintaining regulatory authority.

Social:

The involvement of Reynolds and McElhenney in The Hundred highlights the growing trend of celebrities venturing into sports investments. Their potential stake in Welsh Fire could boost the tournament’s popularity, drawing in new fans and increasing engagement. This move also underscores the social impact of celebrity endorsements in broadening the appeal of sports beyond traditional audiences, potentially attracting a younger, more diverse fan base.

Racial:

Although this investment does not directly address racial dynamics, the high-profile nature of Reynolds and McElhenney’s potential involvement could shine a spotlight on diversity within cricket. Their investment might encourage more inclusive practices and representation within the sport, promoting a broader cultural engagement and highlighting the importance of diversity in ownership and management roles.

Gender:

The Hundred is unique in its equal emphasis on both men’s and women’s teams, and the involvement of Reynolds and McElhenney could further elevate the profile of women’s cricket. Their investment might help bridge the visibility gap between male and female athletes, encouraging more support and recognition for women’s sports. This could lead to increased sponsorship opportunities, media coverage, and fan engagement for women’s cricket.

Economic:

Economically, the potential investment by Reynolds, McElhenney, and the Glazers represents a significant influx of capital into The Hundred. This financial boost could enhance the tournament’s infrastructure, marketing, and overall quality, leading to higher revenues and profitability. The ECB’s cautious approach to selling stakes while retaining control aims to ensure sustainable growth without compromising the integrity of the competition. This strategy could serve as a model for other sports organizations balancing investment with regulatory oversight