Mike Ashley looking to buy Headingley Cricket Ground
Former Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley is reportedly in advanced talks to purchase the iconic Headingley Cricket Ground. The stadium is believed to be up for sale as Yorkshire Cricket Club faces financial difficulties.
Yorkshire willing to sell Headingley to guarantee survival
Yorkshire Cricket Club has had the ground valued at £23 million by a global real estate company. The county club, dealing with financial issues since the loss of sponsors and costs from the Azeem Rafiq racism scandal, is reportedly willing to sell Headingley to ensure its survival.
Mike Ashley closing in on a deal for Headingley
According to The Telegraph, Mike Ashley is in advanced talks to purchase Headingley in a deal that will cost more than £22 million. The report suggests that there is also interest from financial backers from the Indian Premier League and an "undisclosed overseas consortium", but Ashley's Fraser Group is said to be at the most advanced stage of negotiations.
Mike Ashley wants naming rights and potential rebranding
Ashley is believed to be seeking the naming rights as part of the deal for Headingley. The report also suggests that one of Ashley's brands, Slazenger, is a "prime candidate" for a potential rebrand of the iconic stadium.
Headingley's historic moments
Headingley Cricket Ground has been the venue for some memorable cricketing moments. It was the ground where Ben Stokes performed his heroics during the 2019 Ashes series, scoring 135 not out to lead England to victory despite the loss of wickets around him. Earlier this year, Mark Wood and Chris Woakes also guided England to victory over the Aussies in the Ashes at Headingley.
Did you miss our previous article…
https://www.sportingexcitement.com/cricket/heartbreaking-moment-rashid-khans-emotional-message-to-fans-after-afghanistans-loss-in-asia-cup/
