London: Oval Invincibles, the most successful franchise in The Hundred, will officially be renamed MI London starting from the 2026 season. The rebrand follows the completion of Surrey County Cricket Club’s agreement with Reliance Industries Limited, after months of negotiations linked to the ECB’s equity sale in the competition.
With the name change, the men’s and women’s teams join the global Mumbai Indians family, which includes MI Cape Town (SA20), MI Emirates (ILT20), MI New York (MLC), and the Mumbai Indians Women (WPL). This unifies all Reliance-owned cricket franchises under the same international identity.
Final Equity Deal Completed
This announcement marks the eighth and final equity partnership confirmed from the ECB’s major investment round earlier this year. Reliance acquired a 49% stake in the franchise, valuing Oval Invincibles at £123 million—the second-highest valuation behind London Spirit, worth £295 million.
The delay in finalising the rebrand stemmed from Surrey’s reservations about dropping the “Oval Invincibles” identity, which had become strongly linked with their home at The Kia Oval and a remarkable winning legacy. The franchise dominated The Hundred with five titles in five seasons, including back-to-back women’s titles (2021, 2022) and three consecutive men’s titles, the latest secured in a statement victory over Trent Rockets at Lord’s.
Surrey and Reliance Embrace New Era
Surrey chairman Oli Slipper acknowledged the global strength of the MI brand while confirming the rebrand, highlighting the success of Mumbai Indians, who boast 13 major titles, including five IPL trophies and wins across every major league in which they compete.
“We’re pleased to have reached an agreement with the Reliance team,” Slipper said. “The MI brand offers incredible cricketing and business expertise. Together, we believe MI London will help grow our fanbase locally and globally while ensuring long-term investment in cricket across our community.”
Mumbai Indians Leadership Welcomes MI London
Mumbai Indians co-owner Nita M. Ambani celebrated the addition of MI London to the growing MI global family.
“London holds a special place in cricket’s history. We are honoured to bring the MI legacy to this iconic city and look forward to nurturing young talent and connecting diverse communities.”
Akash Ambani echoed her sentiments, calling the move a “new chapter” in the group’s mission to expand cricket globally.
“The Invincibles’ spirit of excellence reflects the MI ethos. We are excited to collaborate with Surrey CCC and build upon the legacy of The Hundred’s most successful team.”
