GMR’s cricket footprint grows with CPL expansion move
The GMR Group — co-owners of the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League — are reportedly in advanced negotiations to bring back the Jamaica Tallawahs franchise to the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), marking another major move in the conglomerate’s rapidly growing global cricket portfolio.
According to ESPNcricinfo, GMR officials were present at the CPL final on Sunday and are considered strong contenders to operate the Jamaica-based team from 2026, expanding the CPL back to a seven-team format after two seasons without the Tallawahs.
Jamaica Tallawahs: a champion returns?
The Jamaica Tallawahs, one of CPL’s original six franchises and three-time champions, have not featured in the league since 2023. Their last owner, Florida-based businessman Kris Persaud, sold the team back to the CPL citing sustainability issues and lack of government support. He went on to launch the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons as a replacement team.
Ahead of the country’s recent elections, Jamaica’s sports and tourism ministry announced it was “finalising arrangements” for a CPL franchise return, following infrastructure investments at Sabina Park — a move widely seen as paving the way for the Tallawahs’ comeback.
CPL chief welcomes potential Jamaica return
“The Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League are very excited at the prospect of a return to Jamaica. We are delighted that there has been significant investment in Sabina Park and have had fruitful and engaging discussions with the Government and other stakeholders about securing a seventh CPL team which will be domiciled in Jamaica for the 2026 season. We have seen the impact that CPL has made on promoting host nations as premier tourism destinations. We look forward to working with our partners to achieve similar success in Jamaica. We are hopeful that these negotiations will reach a positive conclusion in the coming months.”
— Pete Russell, CEO of the Caribbean Premier League, as quoted in multiple media reports.
GMR’s expanding sports empire
If confirmed, the acquisition would further GMR’s growing influence in global cricket. Besides Delhi Capitals, the group also owns Dubai Capitals in the ILT20, Seattle Orcas in Major League Cricket, Hampshire in English county cricket, and Southern Brave in The Hundred.
Outside cricket, GMR Sports holds ownership stakes in India’s Pro Kabaddi League (U.P. Yoddhas), Ultimate Kho Kho (Telugu Yoddhas), and is also a principal stakeholder in the Rugby Premier League (RPL).
What happens next?
GMR’s potential re-entry into the CPL would mark a significant milestone for both the league and Jamaican cricket fans. The move is expected to bring more fixtures to the CPL calendar and revive the passionate home support that once defined Tallawahs matches at Sabina Park.
With negotiations underway and strong support from both the government and CPL, the return of the Jamaica Tallawahs — backed by an influential Indian sporting powerhouse — looks increasingly likely for the 2026 season.
