US-based technology entrepreneur Sanjay Govil is interested in buying a Big Bash League (BBL) team. The businessman is looking to expand his investments in T20 franchise cricket across different countries.
Govil is considering either a 50 percent stake or full ownership of a BBL club. He believes sports franchises can remain valuable assets even as artificial intelligence changes different industries.
His current cricket portfolio includes Major League Cricket side Washington Freedom and a stake in Welsh Fire of The Hundred.
Cricket Australia, along with Cricket Victoria and consultant Raine Group, has opened the process for potential buyers interested in the Melbourne Renegades. A preferred owner is expected to be selected by December 12, when the BBL 2026-27 season begins.
Several IPL owners are also expected to show interest. Govil, however, does not want to enter an expensive bidding battle.
“I’m interested in the Renegades, it’s on the radar. But I think there are going to be a lot of big players who will be interested. I need to focus on what I am capable of doing. I don’t want to get into a bidding war,” said Govil to Cricinfo.
Govil Also Interested in Hobart Hurricanes
Govil is also considering the Hobart Hurricanes. The franchise has links with Washington Freedom through several players and Ricky Ponting. Ponting is Freedom’s head coach and also works as the Hurricanes’ head of strategy.
Hobart could also benefit from a planned billion-dollar closed-roof stadium. The venue is expected to become the Hurricanes’ home from 2031.
Govil is already investing heavily in cricket infrastructure in the US. He is funding a new Freedom cricket ground in Frederick, around 70 kilometres north of Washington DC. The project could be ready for the 2027 MLC season.
“(Hurricanes)… that’s our size of team. If you look at the Welsh Fire and Freedom, we have sort of smaller franchises compared to others. There are the big boys who want to go after the big teams. I love Hobart, they are a winning team. We can make more impact in those teams,” said Govil.
Govil wants an active role in his franchises rather than being a passive investor.
“I’m not just looking to be an investor. I love actively managing teams. The teams I have…I have at least 50% or 100% stake. The one thing I know is if you have two data points and you connect them, it’s always a straight line. I don’t believe in change for the sake of it. I always believe that local identity and local culture is very important. I strongly believe that the traditions need to continue. I think we need to keep building on the history and the tradition. That’s how I see it,” said Govil.
