We are just over a month away from the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and this is a time when the franchises are having peak brand valuation. It's been 18 years since the IPL's inception and the league's brand value has swelled to an astronomical $18.5 billion (Rs 1.67 lakh crore) as of 2025. Mind-boggling!
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) are the two IPL franchises that are looking for a new buyer after their current owners decided to put up their respective teams up for sale. As per latest reports, KKR is interested to buy a huge share of stakes in RCB or RR, depending on availability and deal feasibility. However, there is a big twist to this tale.
The KKR here doesn't refer to Kolkata Knight Riders, the franchise from Kolkata. Instead, it refers to global private equity investment firm KKR and Blackstone who are a major player in the business world. According to Reuters, they are eyeing major investments in India with the priority being the lucrative cricket market. Understandably, IPL is at the forefront of their plans.
Reuters claims that two banking sources have confirmed to them about KKR's strong interest in acquiring one of RCB or RR. It must be noted that a plethora of bigwigs from different walks of life have their eyes locked on this mission along with KKR. These include Manchester United's co-owner Avram Glazer who had made a bid of $1.8 billion.
The plans and talks from KKR and Blackstone are allegedly at a very nascent stage. Reuters revealed that no official update or comment has been obtained regarding this matter. However, there should be a lot more clarity by March 31, as it is the last day of the financial year. The official paperwork can take longer but the owner designate should be known well before.
