Manchester United owners interested to buy Women’s IPL franchise

Glazers Family, the owners of the English football club Manchester United, have reportedly shown interest to own and operate a franchise in the upcoming Women’s IPL. They currently own the Desert Vipers franchise in ILT20 and want to expand their business as they are looking into other cricket opportunities around the world.

The CEO of the ILT20 franchise, Phil Oliver has confirmed about the same and thus, might take part in the auction for the WIPL franchises on January 25, 2023.

“Having bought into the ILT20, it is natural for us to look into other cricket opportunities around the world, including Women's IPL,” said Phil Oliver to Cricbuzz on January 13.

The India market is of interest to us: Oliver

Last year, when the Board of Control for Cricket in India issued Invitation to Tender (ITT) for for two new IPL franchises, the Glazer’s family showed interest but failed to win the bid. However, their interest in the Indian market remained as they are now preparing to own a women’s team.

While talking about the same, CEO Phil Oliver, however, didn’t reveal any information but stated that they are interested to bring an exciting brand of cricket for the Indian fans. They are also said to be monitoring the Indian market at the moment.

“I can't reveal the details of how far we are in that process but I am happy to say that we are looking into all opportunities, including the WIPL. The India market is of interest to us. A lot of Indian cricket fans will be watching this tournament and will see what the Desert Vipers will bring to that. If anything, we want to bring an exciting brand of cricket to the Indian fans, just as to our fans all around the world,” Oliver added.

Meanwhile, the Invitation to Tender will be available for purchase till January 21. 

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