(Source X)
Andrew Strauss, the former captain of the England cricket team, is actively exploring the acquisition of a team in The Hundred tournament. His investment firm, TTB Sport Capital, is playing a pivotal role as a consultant for potential bidders hailing from India, the UK, and the USA, according to sources cited by The Guardian.
In addition to facilitating bids on behalf of others, TTB Sport Capital may also pursue its own bid for a team in The Hundred, as per the report. Strauss joined TTB Sport Capital in 2023 specifically to spearhead its cricket investments, following his distinguished tenure at the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), where he served in various capacities including as a director and advisor to the board.
Currently holding the position of managing director at the ECB, Strauss brings a wealth of experience and strategic insight to TTB Sport Capital’s endeavors in cricket and sports investments.
Andrew Strauss holds shares in TTB Sport Capital.
Andrew Strauss, a left-handed batter with a rich history in English cricket, serves as the executive chairman and holds a stake in TTB Sport Capital. This positions him to personally benefit should the firm decide to invest in a franchise within The Hundred competition.
TTB Sport Capital is not limited to cricket investments alone; it has diversified into other sports leagues as well. For instance, they have interests in padel, a racquet sport gaining popularity, and are stakeholders in Angel City, a prominent team in the National Women’s Soccer League based in Los Angeles. This team boasts celebrity shareholders such as Natalie Portman, Serena Williams, and Billie Jean King.
Strauss brings extensive experience and deep connections within English cricket circles. His career highlights include leading England to a historic Ashes victory during the 2010-11 series in Australia. Beyond his playing days, he played a pivotal role in transforming England into an aggressive cricketing force during his tenure as Director of Cricket at the ECB. Under his guidance, England made significant team changes, including appointing Eoin Morgan as captain and Trevor Bayliss as coach, culminating in England’s triumph at the 2019 World Cup.
Andrew Strauss had a notable record in international cricket.
Andrew Strauss, renowned for his illustrious cricket career, featured prominently in 100 Test matches for England, amassing 7037 runs with an impressive average of 40.91, including 21 centuries. In ODIs, he played 127 matches, scoring 4205 runs at an average of 35.63 and a brisk strike rate of 80.94. Among his notable performances is a memorable 158 in the tied match against India during the 2011 World Cup.
Strauss maintains close ties with Sky Sports, the ECB’s television partner holding domestic rights until the conclusion of the 2028 cricketing season. Often seen as a cricket pundit and commentator in Sky’s studios, particularly during England’s home series, Strauss is regarded for his insightful analysis and deep understanding of the game.
A staunch advocate of The Hundred tournament, Strauss emphasized its role in advancing cricket through franchise leagues during his address at the 21st MCC Cowdrey Lecture. He praised such leagues for their contribution to the sport’s commercialization and global appeal.
Currently, the ECB plans to allocate a 51% stake in each of The Hundred franchises to counties, with the remaining shares set for private investors in a forthcoming three-month auction starting in September. Several IPL teams, including Royal Challengers Bangalore, Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Lucknow Super Giants, and Delhi Capitals, have expressed interest in acquiring franchises. While some teams express frustration with the ECB’s auction process, others like Rajasthan Royals, Lucknow Super Giants, and Delhi Capitals show enthusiasm and satisfaction with the opportunity.