Jude Bellingham Joins Cricket Ownership with Birmingham Phoenix Stake
Jude Bellingham's Investment in Birmingham Phoenix
Jude Bellingham, the 22-year-old midfielder for England and Real Madrid, is set to make his mark in the cricket world by acquiring a minority stake in The Hundred franchise, Birmingham Phoenix. An official announcement regarding this investment is anticipated within the week.
Reports indicate that Bellingham has secured approximately one percent of the franchise, which is valued at around £82 million following a recent investment round for The Hundred. His stake is believed to be divided between Warwickshire County Cricket Club and Knighthead Capital, who currently hold the majority and minority stakes, respectively. This investment is estimated to be close to £1 million based on auction data.
Local Ties Enhance His Involvement
The initial report of this deal came from The Cricketer and was communicated to the England and Wales Cricket Board over a year ago. Bellingham's investment is not just financial; it is deeply personal as well. Growing up in the Midlands and beginning his football journey with Birmingham City, his connection to Birmingham Phoenix is significant.
As a youth, Bellingham played cricket for Hagley Cricket Club in Worcestershire, showcasing his enduring interest in the sport alongside his football career. His choice to invest in Birmingham Phoenix underscores his love for cricket and his regional connections.
Currently, Warwickshire holds a 50.4% majority stake in Birmingham Phoenix, while Knighthead Capital possesses 48.4%. With his recent investment, Jude Bellingham becomes one of the latest stakeholders in the franchise.
The Birmingham Phoenix roster includes prominent players such as men's captain Jacob Bethell and Australian cricket star Ellyse Perry, along with emerging English talents like Alice Capsey and Davina Perrin.
Launched by the ECB, The Hundred continues to draw global investors and attention, aiming to expand cricket's audience. Bellingham's involvement signifies the growing commercial interest in franchise cricket and the increasing overlap between different sports.