Lalit Modi Puts Forward Bold Proposal To ECB Planning to Revolutionise The Hundred

Lalit Modi, the visionary behind the Indian Premier League (IPL), is now directing his focus towards restructuring England's The Hundred.

Lalit Modi, former chairman and commissioner of Indian Premier League during the IPL Auction 2010 on January 19, 2010 in Mumbai, India.

Source : Getty

Lalit Modi, the architect of the Indian Premier League (IPL), is now directing his focus toward The Hundred. Despite facing a life ban imposed by the Board Of Control For Cricket In India (BCCI), Modi has put forward a proposal to restructure the English tournament, drawing parallels to the successful model of the IPL. Undeterred by his ban, the former IPL official aims to replicate his success by making The Hundred another thriving league under his guidance.

According to Cricbuzz reports, Lalit Modi has submitted a proposal to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) with the aim of enhancing revenue through a restructuring of The Hundred. The proposal outlines a $100 million purse for the teams over 10 years, along with a significant $10 billion inflow into the ECB's account.

Lalit Modi’s Proposal For The Hundred

A notable feature of Modi's proposal is the emphasis on not making The Hundred an ‘India dominated' league, minimising the involvement of teams from the Indian Premier League (IPL).

“I have suggested only two IPL teams; it has to be an English league and not India dominated,” Modi was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.

It is noteworthy that the ECB had been exploring the possibility of bringing in private investors into their structure. However, given Lalit Modi's lifetime ban imposed by the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India), the ECB will only contemplate his proposal after consulting with the Indian board.

"Being an sovereign and autonomous body, ECB is not obliged to consult the BCCI but it may for the sake of bilateral relations with the BCCI, the BCCI is treating Modi as a pariah. While it continues to flourish on [his] invention but avoids the mention of his name. No commentator ever takes his name during the IPL,” said a source as quoted by Cricbuzz.

SRH, CSK To Invest In Lalit Modi's Plan?

The report also adds that several IPL teams, including Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), are considering investments in the English league. SRH's owners, the Sun TV Network, have engaged in talks with the ECB, with a decision expected in April. The success of SRH's venture, Sunrisers Eastern Cape, in South Africa adds to their confidence. Other IPL teams, like Delhi Capitals' part owners GMR Group and Chennai Super Kings, have also shown interest in investing in English cricket. 

However, it remains unclear whether the interest from IPL teams is related to Lalit Modi's proposed league or The Hundred, with indications suggesting that these may be distinct entities.