ESPNcricinfo can disclose that Kevin Pietersen assisted in mediating the historic agreement between Hampshire and the Delhi Capitals’ co-owners. Pietersen referred to Monday’s announcement of Hampshire and the GMR Group’s new “strategic partnership” as a “historic day in English cricket” following protracted negotiations.
After playing for Hampshire from 2005 to 2010, Pietersen signed a three-year deal with the Delhi IPL team, subsequently dubbed the Daredevils, and captained them in 2014. Since then, he has kept up a personal friendship with GMR chairman Kiran Kumar Grandhi. Earlier this month, the two went to England’s Twenty20 International match against Australia at the Utilita Bowl.
Pietersen is said to have played an informal introduction between Hampshire and GMR, despite the fact that he has no active economic involvement in either company. “A TRUE HOUR in English Cricket History! In reaction to the official announcement of the contract, he posted on X, “Congrats to everyone on this journey.” “This is only the beginning. LFG! [Let’s fuck off.]”
The parent firm of Hampshire, Rod Bransgrove, reported that he had spoken to investors “all over the world” over the previous eighteen months and that “four or five” of them had made official proposals. According to Bransgrove, GMR’s “ethos,” “family orientation,” and dedication to “social responsibility” were the main factors in their selection.
Pietersen was involved in the transaction, according to Bransgrove, who stated, “We’ve definitely spoken to Kevin once or twice.
He serves as an ambassador for GMR.” Since he is plainly familiar with both our culture and the GMR culture and understands that they complement one other extremely well, he has been quite intrigued in the possibility of this. Yes, he has been active in that regard.”
Grandhi informed ESPNcricinfo that Pietersen was “the common link” that connected him and Bransgrove. Grandhi’s son Ruchir is also active at Delhi. Grandhi remarked, “He is a good friend.” “He is familiar with Rod. He is familiar with me. As a mutual buddy, he serves as the connecting thread.”
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