The rebranding of the Oval Invincibles to MI London marks a significant shift, bringing the Ambani family’s massive cricket enterprise to the iconic Oval stadium. Following a 60 million pound investment for a 49 percent stake in early 2025, Reliance Industries Limited has officially partnered with Surrey. Despite the visual changes in colors and branding, Surrey CEO Steve Elworthy emphasizes that the collaboration is rooted in a long-standing appreciation for The Hundred.
While the franchise now aligns with the broader MI global network, including teams in South Africa, the UAE, and the USA, Surrey remains a primary stakeholder committed to preserving its local identity. Players like Will Jacks have noted a seamless transition, as the team integrates new MI-branded kits while retaining a familiar operational structure. Coaching changes have seen Kieron Pollard take the helm for the men’s side and Lisa Keightley lead the women’s team, blending new international insights with established Surrey personnel.
Beyond the pitch, the partnership leverages the commercial strength and global reach of the Mumbai Indians organization. The management aims to evolve MI London into a year-round brand rather than a seasonal entity. Looking ahead to 2027, the franchise intends to take more direct control over operational tasks like ticketing and event delivery, currently managed by the England and Wales Cricket Board. Throughout these structural adjustments, the primary objective remains unchanged: sustaining the high standard of performance that secured five titles for the franchise under its previous identity.
