The investment from Indian Premier League side Mumbai Indians (MI) has significantly expanded the global reach and commercial expertise of MI London, a team in The Hundred cricket competition. While MI holds a minority stake in MI London, the partnership operates as a unified team focused on mutual success.
MI's involvement has introduced a global perspective, transforming what was previously a more localized team into a global brand with international partners. "MI have got teams around the world and business around the world, so that's something we've learned from them," said MI London CEO Steve Elworthy. "The Hundred previously was pretty local. Whereas now, I think we've actually got a global brand here and global partners now. That's a brilliant place to be."
Strategic Partnership
Former Australia and England coach Lisa Keightley noted that MI has been mindful of collaborating with another organization for the first time. Both parties are actively working to ensure the venture's success. "MI's insight from having so many teams is definitely helpful. I know how passionate the owners are and when they commit to something, they do everything to make sure the team's successful," Keightley stated.
The strategic alignment extends to player development, offering MI London players opportunities within the wider MI network. This includes the potential to play in other MI-owned franchises, such as the Women's Premier League (WPL) in India. "I've been very lucky," said player Will Jacks. "Playing with so many great players and icons of Indian cricket at MI has opened me up to a lot of new things and skills. That experience, you can't buy that." Keightley added, "If you're a MI London player, there's definitely an opportunity to be involved in WPL. Because you build the relationship, you know what a player can do and they know the environment that they're going into."