Manchester Originals Transform Into Manchester Super Giants (Source: @Sports_Himanshu/x.com)
The Hundred is heading for a landmark transformation as the Manchester Originals gear up for a fresh identity. Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka acquired a massive stake earlier this year, and the franchise will be renamed as Manchester Super Giants from the 2026 season.
After the England Cricket Board decided to privatize the tournament, it sought outside investors to capitalize on its growing popularity, and the Manchester team was set to join the RPSG Group.
Manchester’s New Chapter On The Way
Among all the franchise leagues worldwide, the Hundred is recognized for its distinctiveness. The hundred-ball game never fails to excite the fans as the tournament always delivers some unmissable action. Ahead of the upcoming 2026 season, the tournament is set to experience something new as the Manchester Originals will step onto the ground with a new identity.
The England Cricket Board suggested privatizing The Hundred, and now it is happening. As per Cricbuzz, Sanjiv Goenka, owner of India’s RPSG Group, made headlines by buying a significant stake worth 107 million GBP. This marks a major change in the tournament’s future. Reports also suggest Goenka beat competition from two other IPL team owners to secure the deal.
After this huge deal, Sanjiv Goenka shared his excitement. Ahead of the new beginning, he said, “We respect the legacy of Lancashire Cricket and we welcome Manchester Originals to our RPSG family. We are committed to developing a deep bond with the players, support team and the whole community at large. We believe in excellence and see a huge potential to deliver good quality cricket for generations to come.”
James Sheridan Remains Hopeful
After the massive takeover, the Manchester Originals Chairman is optimistic about the new beginning. Starting a new beginning with RPSG, he believes that it will help them to reach a much higher standard, drawing inspiration from the IPL.
“We want to offer our fans an experience never before seen in English cricket - looking to the IPL, and other major sports, for inspiration, as we take our match day and fan experience to a completely different level,” he said.
“Whether in stadia or via digital channels, Manchester will be the team to follow in The Hundred as we will look to bring the world's top cricket stars, both female and male, to Manchester every August and provide sporting entertainment of the highest level to the people of Manchester and the wider North West,” he added.
The Manchester Originals are yet to secure their maiden Hundred trophy as they finished as the runners-up in the 2022 and 2023 season. With the new beginning, they will be eyeing a fresh start.
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