The Hundred welcomed huge investment as the Cricket Research Network pondered what lies ahead for the sportTwo consecutive days, two cricket events, two very different visions.One, at Old Trafford last Friday, was all sharply pressed chinos and beaming smiles, as Lancashire held a press conference to celebrate their link up with the RSPG group, who have agreed to pay £80m for a 70% stake in the Manchester Originals. A miked up Warren Hegg compered proceedings, including a video link with the RSPG vice-chair Shashwat Goenka – now the proud owner of a third cricket franchise alongside Lucknow Super Giants and Durban Super Giants – and who expressed a desire for the Manchester Super Giants Originals to one day rival City and United.This is an extract from the Guardian’s weekly cricket email, The Spin. To subscribe, just visit this page and follow the instructions. Continue reading...
The future of cricket is under scrutiny, with discussions focusing on language evolution, diversity issues, gambling concerns, and new franchise investments. The Cricket Research Network highlighted changes in terminology and the underrepresentation of certain groups, particularly Black and South Asian women, in the sport. Gambling and corruption risks in formats like the T10 were also raised. Meanwhile, significant investments in new franchises, such as the Manchester Originals, reflect the sport's financial growth. These topics underscore both the challenges and opportunities facing cricket today.
