How Mumbai Indians takeover has changed MI London and Surrey cricket

The Mumbai Indians, one of the most successful franchises in the Indian Premier League, completed an investment in MI London — a team competing in The Hundred, England's premier franchise cricket competition. BBC Sport has taken a detailed look at what has changed for MI London, formerly associated with Surrey county cricket, and what the future holds under Indian ownership.

What has changed under Mumbai Indians ownership

The Mumbai Indians brand, which has five IPL titles to its name, brings with it global recognition, financial resources and a professional cricketing infrastructure. Since the investment was completed, MI London has undergone changes in branding, commercial partnerships and player recruitment strategy. The Mumbai Indians are known for investing heavily in young talent and developing players over the long term, a philosophy that has influenced MI London's approach to squad building.

The relationship with Surrey County Cricket Club, which provides the home ground at The Oval, has evolved. Surrey had previously operated the London Spirit franchise, which became MI London following the franchise restructuring that preceded the Mumbai Indians' involvement. The commercial and operational arrangement between MI London and Surrey remains in place, but the dynamics of the partnership have shifted with overseas investment now at the centre of the franchise's decision-making.

What has stayed the same

The Hundred format itself remains unchanged. MI London continue to play their home matches at The Oval and draw from Surrey's player pool for eligible domestic cricketers. The ties to English county cricket remain a structural feature of the franchise model.

The future

The Mumbai Indians' involvement in global franchise cricket is part of a wider strategy of international expansion. MI teams now operate in multiple competitions around the world. For MI London and Surrey, the partnership offers access to greater commercial resources and cricketing expertise. Whether this translates into sustained on-field success in The Hundred remains to be seen as the competition continues to grow in profile and audience.