Amid the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023, Saudi Arabia has reportedly expressed a keen interest in acquiring a multibillion-dollar stake in the globally renowned Indian Premier League (IPL). As per a recent report by Bloomberg News, citing sources familiar with the matter, the Saudi government is keen to acquire a huge stake in the league.
The potential move, if materialised, could mark a significant step in the league’s trajectory, elevating its financial stature even further. According to the report, advisers of Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman initiated discussions with Indian government officials during the crown prince’s visit to India in September.
The discussions revolved around the proposition of incorporating the IPL into a holding company with an estimated valuation of up to $30 billion. It is speculated that the kingdom is considering a substantial investment of approximately $5 billion into the IPL. Moreover, the proposed collaboration aims to facilitate an ambitious expansion of the IPL into other countries, potentially broadening the league’s global footprint.
Will the Indian Cricket Board sell its money-laying property?
The news has stirred the sports world, and the Indian Cricket Board and IPL’s governing body have not issued an official statement yet. Since 2008, the IPL has been a highly lucrative and competitive league, shaping professional cricket in India and globally. It has a reputation for attracting elite players and coaches.
Meanwhile, India is currently hosting the ODI World Cup 2023 in the country. The multinational tournaments are being played in 12 cities across the country. The hosts, India, have been a superpower in the tournament, as they have won all seven of their games and qualified for the semifinals of the tournament. India will now take on South Africa at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on November 5.
Here is how fans react to Saudi Arabia’s proposal:
WOW SAUDIS K PASS B BHT PAISA HAI ??
— Amie syed (@Catbandittt1) November 3, 2023
Getting money back from habibi ????
— Xi jingping (Parody) (@xipingaoc) November 3, 2023
I hope we reject the money. They have occupied almost every popular sport. Someone needs to stand up to them.
— Aman (@CricketSatire) November 3, 2023
?? Saudi Arab #IPL2024 pic.twitter.com/7GZJj8q86y
— Radhika Chaudhary (@Radhika8057) November 3, 2023
IPL is a highest income generated league in the world ????
— Ashok Meena (@ak_meenaaaa) November 3, 2023
???? ???? ???? ?? ???? ?? – ????????? ? pic.twitter.com/nwg2xwDXg4
— rp singh (@RPsingh125) November 3, 2023
They have money for everything except Palestine
— Ahmed || PCT stan ?? (@AhmedWritesShit) November 3, 2023
IPL is going to get bigger and bigger.
It could have lots of consequences on different formats and international matches. Let's see what's in store for International cricket.
— Yogesh (@yogeshontop) November 3, 2023
Not interested ?
— Ayush (@vkkings077) November 3, 2023
