MI acquire Oval Invincibles rebranded as MI London 2026
In a major development for global franchise cricket, Reliance Industries, owners of the Mumbai Indians, have officially taken over the Oval Invincibles franchise in The Hundred. Beginning in 2026, both the men’s and women’s teams will compete under the new name MI London. The partnership, finalised after months of negotiations, marks a transformative moment for English cricket’s most successful Hundred team. So Let’s take a look at MI acquire Oval Invincibles rebranded as MI London 2026.
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A New Identity: MI London Unveiled
Oval Invincibles have been a powerhouse in The Hundred, lifting five titles in five seasons, with dominance across both men’s and women’s competitions. The rebranding to MI London signals an ambitious shift toward globalisation, with franchise owners aiming to amplify the team’s international appeal and commercial reach.
The franchise will now be co-owned by Reliance Strategic Business Ventures Limited (49%) and Surrey County Cricket Club (51%), following the transfer of ownership rights from the ECB. The collaboration blends Mumbai Indians’ proven franchise model with Surrey’s rich cricketing heritage.
Expanding the Global MI Empire
With the addition of MI London, the Mumbai Indians ecosystem now spans India, UAE, USA, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. The move reinforces Reliance’s strategy of building a consistent and recognisable global cricket brand, much like leading football franchises.
Akash Ambani emphasised that the Invincibles’ legacy aligns seamlessly with MI’s values of passion, excellence, and resilience, promising a future built on strong performance both on and off the field.
Surrey’s Vision and Collaborative Future
Surrey CCC Chair Oli Slipper expressed confidence in the partnership, highlighting Reliance’s proven track record in building successful cricket franchises. The collaboration is expected to raise the competitive level of The Hundred while expanding its commercial footprint.
IPL Owners’ Growing Presence in The Hundred
Mumbai Indians are not alone. IPL stakeholders have increasingly invested in English cricket:
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Lucknow Super Giants → 70% stake in Manchester
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Delhi Capitals (GMR Group) → 49% stake in Hampshire
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Sunrisers Hyderabad → Full ownership of Yorkshire
This trend underscores the rising influence of Indian cricket businesses in the UK’s professional leagues.
FAQs
1. What will happen to Oval Invincibles’ name?
The franchise will be renamed MI London starting from the 2026 season.
2. Who owns MI London now?
Reliance holds 49%, while Surrey CCC retains 51% ownership.
3. Why was this rebranding done?
To expand Mumbai Indians’ global footprint and strengthen The Hundred’s international appeal.
4. Will the team’s squad change?
Player retention and draft decisions will follow the league’s standard process, but a refreshed MI-style structure is expected.
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