Gujarat Titans Set for Ownership Change as Torrent Group Moves In
Former Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Gujarat Titans are on the brink of a major ownership shift, with Indian business conglomerate Torrent Group in advanced negotiations to acquire a controlling stake. The Ahmedabad-based company is set to purchase a 67% share from CVC Capital Partners (Irelia Company Pvt Ltd), which originally secured ownership of the franchise in 2021. The proposed transaction is currently awaiting approval from the IPL governing council and could be finalized ahead of the upcoming IPL season, slated to begin on March 21.
Torrent Group Eyes Majority Stake in Gujarat Titans
A source closely linked to the IPL confirmed that discussions are in the final stages, with Torrent Group emerging as the frontrunner to secure a controlling interest in the franchise. The insider, speaking on condition of anonymity, highlighted that CVC Capital Partners’ lock-in period as the sole owner concludes in February 2025, making the stake sale a viable option.
Torrent Group, a key player in India’s pharmaceutical sector, had previously expressed interest in IPL ownership. The company was among the bidders when the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) introduced two new franchises in 2021. The potential acquisition is subject to BCCI approval, which is expected to be granted in the coming days.
While the exact valuation of the stake remains undisclosed, CVC Capital Partners initially invested ₹5,625 crore to secure Gujarat Titans as an IPL franchise in 2021.
Gujarat Titans’ Journey So Far
Gujarat Titans made an impactful entry into the IPL, clinching the title in 2022 under the leadership of Hardik Pandya. The team followed up their debut success with a runner-up finish in 2023. However, their latest campaign saw them drop to eighth place in the standings, now under the captaincy of Shubman Gill.
Key players in the Titans’ lineup include Afghanistan’s premier leg-spinner Rashid Khan, England’s white-ball captain Jos Buttler, and Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj.
Torrent Group’s Cricketing Aspirations
The Torrent Group, which holds an estimated valuation of ₹41,000 crore, has been actively looking to expand its presence in cricket. In 2021, the company participated in bidding for the Ahmedabad (₹4,653 crore) and Lucknow (₹4,356 crore) franchises but lost out to CVC Capital and the RPSG Group, respectively.
In 2023, Torrent Sports Ventures Private Limited, a subsidiary of Torrent Group, also attempted to acquire one of the three available franchises in the Women’s Premier League (WPL). However, the bid was unsuccessful.
BCCI Approval Crucial for Deal Finalization
As the IPL governing council reviews the proposed ownership change, Torrent Group remains optimistic about entering the lucrative IPL ecosystem. If approved, this acquisition will mark a significant milestone for the conglomerate as it ventures into India’s multi-billion-dollar cricketing industry.
With the IPL 2025 season fast approaching, all eyes are now on the BCCI’s final verdict on the ownership shift. If the deal goes through, Gujarat Titans will enter the new season with not just a fresh vision on the field but also a new leadership team at the helm.
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